Councils and incorporated not-for-profit organisations in the electorate of Parkes will now be able to apply for funding of between $20,000 and $10 million for capital infrastructure projects under Round Two of the National Stronger Regions Fund.
The National Stronger Regions Fund demonstrates the Government’s commitment to strengthening regions across Australia by investing in projects to build or upgrade vital infrastructure.
The Australian Government is providing $212 million to successful applicants under Round One of the programme.
Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton is pleased that the Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets will receive $3.29 million to upgrade its Cattle Sale Facilities under Round One of the programme.
“Round One was extremely competitive with the Government receiving 405 applications seeking funding of over $1.2 billion,” Mr Coulton said.
“Given that Round Two applicants will now have more time to develop and submit their applications, the quality for this round is expected to be much higher.
“This programme presents a key opportunity for local councils and organisations to receive much needed funding towards priority projects, and I would encourage all eligible parties to submit an application.”
Mr Coulton said that following feedback from stakeholders on Round One, some changes have been made for Round Two.
“Under Round Two, $25 million will be quarantined for those projects seeking funding of $1 million or less. This will create more opportunities for councils and organisations in my electorate who may not need $10 million in funding, but do need a smaller amount to achieve real outcomes,” he said.
“Applicants will also be allowed to submit two applications. This is a huge boost for potential applicants in Western New South Wales who can now target two key projects which may not have been funded by other means.”
More information on the programme, including on the application process for Round Two, is available at http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/nsrf.