Residents of the Coonamble Shire Council area will soon see funds flow for drought support, with $581,696 worth of projects now approved under the Coalition’s Drought Communities Programme (DCP).

Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said he is delighted that Council has had three of their proposed local projects approved.

“I am so pleased to give the go-ahead for Coonamble Shire Council to deliver projects that will greatly benefit the community, especially in the current challenging dry times,” Mr Coulton said.

“Council will use this funding to rejuvenate community infrastructure in Coonamble, Quambone and Gulargambone, revitalise local tourism and hold community events.

“I know these projects will provide a much-welcome boost for locals and visitors alike, and I look forward to seeing them evolve.”

The approved projects include:

• $311,686 for Coonamble Shire facility upgrades and community beautification projects in Coonamble, Quambone and Gulargambone
• $150,000 for Coonamble Clay Target Club – development of a new shooting facility
• $120,010 for Coonamble Shire Council’s tourism initiative and improvements to established community assets
The DCP was extended last year to provide support of $1 million each to all 18 councils in the Parkes electorate including Coonamble, as well as the Unincorporated Area.

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.