Deputy Mayor of Cabonne Shire Council Jamie Jones with Cabonne Shire Council General Manager Bradley Byrnes welcome the funding announcement from Mr Andrew Gee.
Central West councils, including Cabonne will be supported as part of the Federal Government’s $1.8 billion boost for road and community projects through local governments across Australia.
The investment will support local jobs and businesses and boost local economies struggling under the effects of COVID-19. Cabonne Council is set to receive $1,293,770 in funding under the programme.
Calare MP and Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education Andrew Gee, said the package included the establishment of a new $500 million Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program and the bringing forward of $1.3 billion of the 2020-21 Financial Assistance Grant payment.
The new programme is based on the successful Roads to Recovery programme and will enable local councils to deliver priority projects with a focus on upgrades and maintenance to local roads and community infrastructure.
Mr Gee said more than $8.8 million in funding will go to accelerating local infrastructure projects which will support jobs and the local economy in the Central West.
“Every single job we support makes a huge difference in our local communities, both now and as we navigate out of the coronavirus pandemic,” Mr Gee said.
“Not only will this package support jobs and economic activity across the Cabonne Council area, it will improve our local roads and provide for new and upgraded community infrastructure, which is a great investment,” continued Mr Gee.
“I will be working closely with Council to make sure projects get underway to help support local employment and businesses as soon as possible,” said Mr Gee.
“A broad range of community infrastructure projects will be eligible, including new or upgraded bicycle and walking paths, community facilities, and picnic shelters and barbeque facilities at parks which will provide significant enhancement to our region,” said Mr Gee.
Local road projects to be delivered under the programme include but are not limited to constructing or improving bridges and tunnels, street lighting, and heavy vehicle facilities such as rest areas.
The funding allocation for each council was based on the Roads to Recovery programme formula in which the size of the road networks in each local government area is a key factor.
Guidelines for the programme will be provided directly to local governments by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications.
Enquiries about the Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program can be directed here iip@infrastructure.gov.au