Federal Government funds continue to flow for drought support in Warren, with an $80,000 project now approved under the Coalition’s Drought Communities Programme (DCP).
The DCP was extended earlier this year to provide support of $1 million each to all 18 councils in the Parkes electorate including Warren, as well as the Unincorporated Area.
Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said he is delighted that Warren Shire Council has had the funding approved.
“I am so pleased that Warren Shire Council now has the tick of approval to use their grant for drought relief events across the shire. These events will provide great benefits to the local community, especially in the challenging dry times,” Mr Coulton said.
Mr Coulton said Warren Shire Council will use their funding to hold events in Warren, Nevertire, Collie, Marthaguy and The Marra, engaging goods and services from local businesses and community groups. Members of the community will also be able to participate.
“These events will go a long way to boost local employment, and contribute to local economic activity. I congratulate Warren Shire Council on their strong project proposal and I encourage further applications from council to take full advantage of up to $1 million in funding.”
The DCP – Extension is targeted at projects that stimulate local community spending by using local resources, businesses, suppliers and workers, or provide long-lasting benefits for communities and agricultural industries.
Minister for Regional Services, Local Government and Decentralisation Bridget McKenzie said despite the impact of natural disasters, rural and regional Australia continues to punch above its weight in the nation’s economy.
“We know when our regions are strong so is our nation,” Minister McKenzie said.
“With regional Australia accounting for around two-thirds of our exports and employing hundreds of thousands of Australians, supporting these communities now is a small price to pay to ensure we keep the economy growing.”
Funding is available to eligible councils for local infrastructure projects and other drought-relief activities. Project funding is intended to provide short-term support, including by boosting local employment and procurement, and addressing social and community needs. For details on the DCP – Extension see https://www.business.gov.au/assistance/drought-communities-programme
Further updates on other successful council projects in the Parkes electorate will be made in the near future.
Photo Caption: Member for Parkes Mark Coulton with Warren Shire Councillors in July 2018.
