The National Stronger Regions Fund targets projects that deliver priority economic development and small scale community infrastructure at the local level.
Round One of the Fund provides local community projects with between $20,000 and $10 million, covering up to 50 per cent of project costs.
“The Fund supports a range of local and regional development initiatives which can range from transport projects to the development of sports and community facilities,” Federal Member for Fisher Mal Brough MP said.
“This is a huge opportunity for our region as the Fund gives local communities the power to identify local projects to meet local needs.”
Local Government and incorporated not-for-profit organisations are eligible to apply for grants. Funding must be matched in cash on at least a dollar for dollar basis, and the funded part of the project must be completed on or before 31 December 2019.
Potential applicants are encouraged to contact Regional Development Australia Sunshine Coast to discuss opportunities, identify infrastructure projects, facilitate bringing key parties together and/or assist with applications.
Projects seeking funding will be considered in consultation with the Australian Government’s National Infrastructure Committee, which has a strong interest in, and commitment to, harnessing the potential of Australia’s regions.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the Fund would enhance the economic growth, activity and output of Australia’s regions and sustain these gains into the future.
“The Fund will invest in crucial infrastructure projects nominated by local communities, ensuring Australia’s regions are investing in their own future.”
Download the Guidelines for the National Stronger Regions Fund which detail the type of project proposals sought, how to lodge an application, how assessments will be conducted, and critical program dates.
Applications close on 28 November 2014.
The National Stronger Regions Fund is an initiative to boost social and economic development in Australia’s regions by funding priority infrastructure projects in local communities. The Australian Government has committed $1 billion to the fund over five years starting from 2015–16.