The main objective of the $170 million NSW Drought Stimulus Package is to mitigate the employment and income effects of the current drought in regional NSW by delivering economic stimulus. The first focus will be on fast-tracking existing local infrastructure projects that will boost local economies, with a number of projects already announced. Other initiatives will be rolled out and these will keep money flowing and people working in local towns and villages.
All projects and initiatives will focus on putting dollars into local pay packets. Tradespeople, suppliers and project workers will receive new work and spend money in local businesses such as cafes, retail stores and with service providers.
Funding available for country shows
Country shows have an important place in the calendars of many regional NSW towns and provide a positive and morale-boosting outlet for local communities and businesses. Funding is now available to support the costs of organising and running country shows in drought and bushfire impacted areas of regional NSW.
To find more information visit the Country Show Sponsorship Packages Fact Sheet.
Critical town water projects
A set of critical town water projects have also been announced:
- $30 million for new groundwater infrastructure at Dubbo
- $2.2 million to improve bore water supply at Coonabarabran
- $2 million for critical maintenance of the Albert Priest Channel (Nyngan to Cobar)
- $2 million for a water security and water quality project in Narromine.
Project showcase
The following are examples of projects being funded across regional NSW that will stimulate local economies and build infrastructure that brings lasting benefits into the future.
Girilambone Railway revitalisation

Broken Hill Airport upgrade

Gilgandra industrial precinct

Bourke town centre revitalisation

Glen Innes Saleyards upgrade

Warren Airport upgrade

Country Show Sponsorship Packages
Contact us
For more information on the Drought Stimulus Package:
- Email: regionalnsw.business@regional.nsw.gov.au
- Phone: 1300 679 673
Learn more about drought assistance packages on the Drought Hub website.