Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch has called on communities in Cairns, Cape York and the Torres Strait to apply for funding under Round 5 of the Building Better Regions Fund.
Under Round Five there are two funding options – Community Investments Stream and Infrastructure Projects Stream.
Mr Entsch said 2020 was a challenging year for our community but the Building Better Regions Fund will help kick-start the recovery process by supporting community-driven projects at a time it is most needed.
“This round of funding includes $100 million in dedicated funding for tourism-related infrastructure while maintaining $100 million for broader community infrastructure and investment,” Mr Entsch said.
“Cairns and Far North Queensland will play an integral role in our nation’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I encourage communities in our region to apply for both the community investments stream and the infrastructure projects stream to enhance community facilities, create much-needed jobs and encourage community cohesion.
“Our region has already benefited from previous rounds of the Building Better Regions Fund with investments in projects such as the Cooktown Airport Expansion, Munro Martin Parklands Stage Two Redevelopment and CAPS Weipa Animal Welfare Centre driving economic growth and delivering lasting benefits to local communities.”
Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the Australian Government is proud to be supporting regional communities through the Building Better Regions Fund, particularly those regions which rely upon domestic and international tourism.
“2020 highlighted just how strong our regions are, with communities and industries working to overcome many challenges to continue to grow,” Mr McCormack said.
“The first four rounds of the BBRF were highly competitive with more than 3,200 applications received and 995 projects approved for funding, totalling just over $841.6 million.
“This is why I encourage all eligible applicants to apply for funding to ensure the lifeblood of this nation – our regions – continue building strong communities for the future.”
Applications are now open and can be submitted through the online portal at business.gov.au/bbrf
If potential applicants have any questions regarding eligibility or delivery of the program, they can contact the AusIndustry Business Grants Hub on 13 28 46 to discuss their individual circumstances.
Prospective applicants are also encouraged to contact their local Regional Development Australia committee to discuss their application.
More information including contact details for your local RDA can be found at rda.gov.au.
Applications close on 5 March 2021, with successful applicants expected to be announced in mid-2021.