TROPICAL North Queensland applicants still keen to take advantage of the Regional Jobs and Investment Packages have been given extra time to submit their applications for the $220 million initiative.
Minister for Regional Development Fiona Nash said the extension, to 15 August 2017, would ensure the best outcome for regional Australia.
“We have worked closely with regional and remote communities on this programme, and it is clear some organisations would benefit from additional time to prepare a strong application,” Minister Nash said.
“To ensure organisations who have applied already won’t be disadvantaged in any way, we will be making contact and offering them another opportunity to revisit their application before resubmitting. That’s a win-win situation for everyone.
“What it means is my Department receives strong applications on every front; smaller or less-resourced organisations are given more time to apply; and those who have already applied will be able to tweak their application so it is even better.
“Most importantly, regional Australians will reap the rewards of this approach by seeing the best applications selected, and the strongest projects delivered.”
Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch said the extended deadline for applications would benefit local community groups by allowing them more time to prepare the best application possible.
“I'm really pleased about this extension,” Mr Entsch said.
“Local community groups often aren't used to the process of applying for government grants like major organisations are, and this extension can really help them.
“The RJIP funding will be available across three streams: Local infrastructure; Business innovation; and Skills and training.
The $20 million package is designed to strengthen and stimulate long-term economic growth and deliver sustainable employment in Tropical North Queensland.”
Applications for the Package now close on Tuesday 15 August at 5 pm, with successful applicants expected to be announced in the final quarter of 2017.
For more information on the Tropical North Queensland Regional Jobs and Investment Packages, and to put in an application, visit https://www.business.gov.au/Assistance/Regional-Jobs-and-Investment-Packages.
