Australian Government gives $1M funding for drought-affected regions
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The Australian Government has announced federal funding of up to $1 million to help support regions that have been impacted by drought.
The $1 million funding will support 32 projects the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s Tackling Tough Times Together program, enhancing economic recovery and renewal after the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the effects of the natural disasters faced by regional Australians.
“This funding is being delivered directly to grassroots, community-led initiatives to benefit local communities that have been hardest hit,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said.
“These projects focus on reducing volunteer fatigue, fostering social connection, enhancing community identities, developing a greater ability to respond to community challenges and supporting the recovery of the local economy.”
Since the impacts of drought can be long-term and far-reaching, the Australian Government sees it vital that regional areas should be supported with beneficial projects that can support a more secure and resilient country.
Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said a number of the funded projects will help boost the rural and remote communities’ identity, wellbeing and sense of place.
“I am pleased to see a wide range of projects being funded, including rejuvenating a community hub in Maryvale, Queensland, purchasing a community bus to facilitate social connectivity in Brinkworth, South Australia, and supporting a Centenary Celebrations community event in Red Cliffs, Victoria,” Minister Littleproud said.
“This Government is providing over $11 billion from 2018-19 to assist farmers, regional businesses and communities experiencing drought and this is just one commitment that provides immediate support to those communities as they continue their recovery from drought.”
The Tackling Tough Times Together program is a rolling grants program. It is encouraged that drought-affected communities apply for the next open round of funding under the program.
SOURCE: DEPARTMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT, REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS MEDIA RELEASE
Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.
