Let’s Build Better Regions in Hinkler

The Coalition Government’s new Building Better Regions Fund will invest in projects that will create jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger rural, regional and remote communities into the future.

This new $297 million fund – launched by Minister for Regional Development Fiona Nash – will deliver infrastructure projects and community activities located outside the major capital cities. 

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said locals know our community best and the BBRF gives community groups and councils the opportunity to think outside the square.

“I look forward to seeing what projects local communities in Hinkler feel will best strengthen our region and its economy.”

Funding under the BBRF will be available in two streams:

• The Infrastructure Projects Stream will invest in projects that involve the construction of new infrastructure, or upgrade or extension of existing infrastructure.

• The Community Investments Stream will invest in local events and activities, strategic regional plans and leadership and capability building activities.

“There are key differences between the new Building Better Regions Fund and previous funds,” Mr Pitt said.

“Projects in major capital cities will not be eligible under the Building Better Regions guidelines. This is a fund for rural, regional and remote communities.

“A brand new source of funding will be available for community projects – a Community Investments Stream. The Community Investments Stream might help expand a local festival, attract a theatre production or major sporting event to the region to bring more visitors to the town.

“Projects in remote and very remote areas will receive a loading on their project score, and also will not need to produce 1:1 matching funding.

“Also, projects will now be assessed against projects of similar size, so small community projects are not competing against huge projects.”

Minister Nash said when the Government invests in a region it builds confidence across the entire community.

“Confidence is key in regional communities,” she said.

The Program Guidelines for the Building Better Regions Fund outline the type of project proposals sought, how to lodge an application, how assessment will be conducted, and critical program dates.

The Building Better Regions Fund replaces the National Stronger Regions Fund which has now closed.

To access the BBRF guidelines, and to lodge an application from 18 January 2017, visit www.business.gov.au/bbrf

• An information session on the Building Better Regions Fund will be held in Bundaberg on January 24, 2017 at CQUniversity. If you’re unable to make this session, a webinar will be made available in mid-January 2017. To register for the Bundaberg session head to: https://www.business.gov.au/events/building-better-regions-fund-information-session