Communities across the Parkes electorate have the opportunity to apply for a share of $12.1 million in Australian Government funding to help better prepare for drought.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said the Bogan, Bourke, Brewarrina, Broken Hill, Central Darling, Cobar, Coonamble, Dubbo, Gilgandra, Gunnedah, Gwydir, Lachlan, Narrabri, Narromine, Walgett, Warren and Warrumbungle Local Government Areas, as well as Unincorporated NSW, are eligible to apply for grants through the Future Drought Fund’s Community Impact Program.

“This program is being delivered under the $29.6 million Helping Regional Communities Prepare for Drought Initiative – a part of the former Coalition Government’s $5 billion Future Drought Fund,” Mr Coulton said.

“Although it’s hard to imagine another drought while it’s so wet at the moment, we know the next dry time is just around the corner and now’s the best time for our regional communities to start preparing.

“These grants will help rural communities adapt to drier seasons by strengthening their networks and capabilities. It’s all about building the drought resilience needed for the tough times ahead.”

Mr Coulton said grants of between $200,000 and $500,000 are available for projects that support drought preparedness.

“This funding could be used for a range of community-led projects including networking events, training and development, capability building and small infrastructure upgrades,” Mr Coulton said.

“I encourage eligible not-for-profit organisations in the Parkes electorate to apply now to prepare for the next drought.”

Successful applicants will also receive leadership development support to contribute to drought resilience in their communities.

The program is being delivered by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) and the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF).

Expressions of interest are open until 5pm Monday 26 September.

To learn more and submit an EOI, visit www.frrr.org.au/impact-program