Drought Stimulus Package
$170 million for projects that generate local jobs and support local businesses.
The aim of the $170 million NSW Drought Stimulus Package is to boost local economies and create local jobs. The 52 projects and other initiatives funded under this program are keeping money flowing and people working in local towns and villages. Through this package tradespeople, suppliers and project workers are receiving new work and spending money in local businesses such as cafes, retail stores and with service providers.
The package has provided:
- $84.5m for 25 fast-tracked infrastructure projects
- $36.2 million for 4 critical town water projects
- $24.9m for 7 government priority projects
- $15.9 million for 16 local drought support packages
- $8.5 million for local stimulus initiatives including $500,000 for country show sponsorships.
Drought Stimulus Package project success stories

A $10 million grant allowed the creation of new playing fields, a new club house, carpark and roadworks at Glen Willow complex in Mudgee.

Funding allowed the upgrade of watering systems for the Cargo Oval, and improvement of amenities at various community halls.

Funding was used to improve the area around the Belubula River Heritage Walk, fund a tourism campaign for the Orange area and improve Blayney community service infrastructure.

Funding went towards upgrades at the local pool and construction of a new splash park.

The recently upgraded Warren Airport has boosted aircraft capacity and safety for the remote community in far west NSW.

A $1.25 million grant has allowed the construction of new sheep selling facilities at Glen Innes Saleyards.

The Deniliquin Ute Muster now has a new museum and office complex thanks to a $1 million investment from the NSW Government’s Drought Stimulus Package.

Narrandera's Lake Talbot water park and tourist park received funding for upgrades through the Drought Stimulus Package.

These projects in Gunnedah provide upgrades to important community assets as well as work for local contractors and small businesses.
Program evaluation
Drought Stimulus Package Process and Interim Outcomes Evaluation
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.