Guidelines for Round 5 of the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF) are available now with applications opening in the New Year.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt is encouraging communities in the region to apply after the especially tough year they have faced with drought and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Australian Government is here for our communities, we have the funding and we are ready to support them for as long as it takes through dedicated initiatives such as the BBRF,” he said.

“Throughout rural and regional Australia, we have $100 million of targeted support for tourism-related infrastructure to get regional tourism back on its feet, while maintaining $100 million for broader community infrastructure and investment.

“Our region has already benefited from previous rounds of the BBRF with investments in crucial projects such, driving economic growth in Hinkler and delivering lasting benefits to our local communities.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the launch of the program guidelines meant prospective applicants could now begin planning their project applications for assessment.

“The Australian Government is supporting regional communities across the nation with a particular focus in this round on regional tourism,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“This funding will create jobs and drive economic growth in our rural and remote communities at a time it is needed most.”

The guidelines have now been released and can be found at business.gov.au/bbrf meaning local proponents can now start developing their applications. Applications open on 12 January 2021 and close on 5 March 2021. Successful applicants are expected to be announced in mid-2021.