Federal Government funds continue to flow for drought support in Bourke, with $934,000 worth of projects 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 Bourke, as well as the Unincorporated Area.
Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said he is delighted that Bourke Shire Council has had funding approved.
“I am so pleased that Bourke Shire Council now has the tick of approval to use their grants for seven projects that will boost the Bourke community and its economy, especially in the challenging dry times,” Mr Coulton said.
“I congratulate Bourke Shire Council on their strong project proposals, which will provide a wealth of long-lasting benefits for the town.”
The projects include:
• Central Park – Be Active, Social and Safe – $259,000
• Bourke and District Community Stimulus – $200,000
• Bourke CBD beautification of public spaces employment program – $180,000
• Back O Bourke Regional Function and Conference Centre projects – $150,000
• Wharf Employment Project – $60,000
• Drought Events – Social and Economic Stimulation – $60,000
• Toilets at Bourke Cemetery – $25,000
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.