Announced in the 2017-18 budget, the fund is part of the Regional Growth Fund and will help rebuild and refurbish local infrastructure projects in regional communities.
The fund will support projects between $100,000 and $1 million, or higher with financial co-contribution, across 92 local government areas (LGA) in regional NSW, as well as Lord Howe Island and the Unincorporated Far West.
Projects include:
- building new community facilities (such as parks, playgrounds, walking and cycle pathways)
- refurbishing existing local facilities (such as community centres and libraries)
- enhancing local parks and the supporting facilities (such as kitchens and toilet blocks).
There are three application tranches scheduled for round one. Applications are now open for constituents and councils in Tranche A:
- Balranald
- Berrigan
- Bland
- Bogan
- Bourke
- Brewarrina
- Broken Hill
- Central Darling
- Clarence Valley
- Cobar
- Coonamble
- Cootamundra-Gundagai
- Dungog
- Edward River Council
- Gilgandra
- Glen Innes Severn
- Gunnedah
- Hay
- Hilltops
- Inverell
- Kiama
- Lithgow
- Murray River Council
- Muswellbrook
- Nambucca
- Singleton
- Shoalhaven
- Snowy Monaro
- Snowy-Valleys
- Temora
- Tenterfield
- Upper Hunter Shire
- Walcha
- Walgett
- Warren
- Warrumbungle Shire
- Weddin
- Wentworth
- Wingecarribee.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said this is an exciting opportunity to deliver local infrastructure projects that will improve the lives of people in regional communities.
“Every regional community will have access to these funds, and every regional community will have the opportunity to receive their fair share,” Mr Barilaro said.
Applications for Tranche A close 9 August 2017.
Find out more information about the Stronger Country Communities Fund