COUNCILS, COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS URGED TO APPLY FOR ROUND 5 OF THE BUILDING BETTER REGIONS FUND

Applications are now open for local communities across the Riverina and Central West for the fifth round of the successful Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF).

Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development and Riverina MP Michael McCormack said this round would see rural and regional communities share in $200 million.

“Releasing the program guidelines last December meant prospective applicants could begin preparing their submissions,” Mr McCormack said.

“The Australian Government is now welcoming those submissions, ready to support community investments such as local events and strategic regional plans as well as infrastructure projects which will provide lasting benefits to regional and remote areas.

“This round will see $100 million of dedicated support for tourism-related infrastructure while maintaining $100 million for broader community infrastructure and investment.

“The Australian Government is proud to continue supporting our rural and regional communities with Round 5 bringing our total commitment to more than $1 billion over seven years.”

The Building Better Regions Fund has supported several infrastructure projects across the Riverina and Central West with more than $26 million being delivered through the first four rounds of the program, including such projects as renewal works for Wagga Wagga’s Botanic Gardens, the beautification Harden-Murumburrah’s Murrimboola Creek, upgrades to the main streets of Cowra, Forbes, Gundagai and Parkes, a new medical hub in Grenfell and upgrading the original Temora Aerodrome runway and associated main apron and taxiways.

Mr McCormack said the Australian Government was proud to be supporting regional communities through the BBRF, particularly those regions which rely upon domestic and international tourism.

“The year 2020 highlighted just how strong our regions are, with communites and industries working to overcome many challenges to conitue to grow,” Mr McCormack said.

“The first four rounds of the BBRF were highly competitive, with more than 3,200 applications received and 995 projects approved for funding, totalling just over $841.6 million.

“This is why I encourage all eligible applicants to apply for funding to ensure the lifeblood of this nation – our regions – continue building strong communities for the future.”

Applications are now open and can be submitted through the online portal at www.business.gov.au/bbrf.

If potential applicants have any questions regarding eligibility or the delivery of the program they can contact the AusIndustry Business Grants Hub on 13 28 46 to discuss their individual circumstances.

Prospective applicants are also encouraged to contact their local Regional Development Australia (RDA) committee to discuss their application. More information including contact details for your local RDA can be found at www.rda.gov.au

Applications close on 5 March 2021, with successful applicants expected to be announced in mid-2021.

Shane Manning