Community organisations in the Electorate of Parkes have been urged to apply for Round Two of the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF), with applications now open for funding to support further job creation and economic growth in regional and rural Australia.
The Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton said the Electorate had already benefitted from Round One of the programme, with $3,052,450 delivered toward four projects.
“Round One has provided organisations such as Gunnedah Shire Council with the ability to build the $2.6 million Curlewis Pipeline project, and $181,450 to deliver the Tottenham Pool Multipurpose Facility Project for their community,” Mr Coulton said.
Other successful projects from Round One included $95,000 for the Moree Aged and Disability Services Inc. to help people who are ageing, disabled, transport disadvantaged, carers and volunteers and $176,000 for the Trangie Community Connection Incorporated to help develop a respite centre which will drive both economic activity and social improvement in the township.
“It is projects like these that will support local businesses and job creation, while also ensuring the needs of the community are met,” he said.
“The fact BBRF has two streams – Infrastructure Projects and Community Investments – means communities have even more flexibility in developing proposals.  With submissions closing on 19 December 2017 for both streams, I encourage all eligible organisations to get their application in.
Acting Minister for Regional Development Darren Chester said BBRF was designed to back projects that create further investment in the community.
“Applicants should demonstrate how their project will drive economic development, make their region a more attractive place to live and foster partnerships across their community,” Mr Chester said.
 “Infrastructure investment, and planning and capability building are significant to improving outcomes in a community. A clearly articulated regional aged care strategy, for instance, can have as big an impact on residents as building a new aged care facility in a single town.
“When combined, both streams will encourage job creation and economic growth and encourage social cohesion across Australia”.
For more information on the Fund, or to submit an application, visit https://www.business.gov.au/assistance/building-better-regions-fund