One million dollars-worth of drought support has been delivered across the Unincorporated Area under the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme (DCP), it has been announced today.

Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said he is pleased towns and villages right across the Far West of the state will benefit.

“I am thrilled to see funding rolling out for projects in Silverton, Tibooburra, Milparinka, Packsaddle and others, which will provide an enormous boost to the local economy in these areas,” Mr Coulton said.

“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.

“Through this DCP funding, and the work of RDA Far West in managing the grants application process, we are able to deliver this important assistance to the areas that need it.”

A total of $927,027 will fund the approved projects, which include:

• Upgrades to the Penrose Park facilities, Silverton;
• Upgrades to Allpress dam in Tibooburra;
• Installation of gateway signage at Milparinka;
• Purchase and installation of water tanks at the Packsaddle Gymkhana and Bikekhana;
• Upgrades to the Far West stock holding yards (near Broken Hill).

Using $72,973 under the DCP, RDA Far West engaged a drought support officer to manage grant applications and work with local proponents.

RDA Far West Director of Regional Development, Michael Williams, said the funding will help the Unincorporated Area throughout the challenging dry times.

“Funding under the DCP will go a long way to support local economies and employment opportunities in the Unincorporated Area,” Mr Williams said.

“RDA Far West has been pleased to be involved in the grants application process and the funding rollout on behalf of local proponents.”

The DCP was extended last year to provide support of $1 million each to all 18 councils in the Parkes electorate as well as the Unincorporated Area.

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 successful projects in the Parkes electorate under the DCP will be made in the near future.