Inverell Shire Council is being encouraged to apply for their share in the Drought Communities Program, which has been extended with an additional $75 million by the Government.
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Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said all 10 councils in his electorate were eligible for the extension of this assistance.
“Every council in the New England, from the Upper Hunter to Tenterfield, can apply for this funding which demonstrates just how widespread and how seriously we are taking these worsening drought conditions in our region,” Mr Joyce said.
“It will give local councils on the ground the opportunity to use the drought funding where they see fit whether that’s for transporting water, community drought information sessions or hiring extra hands to help with the drought relief measures.”
Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government John McVeigh said the fund would provide immediate and short-term support for farmers and regional communities doing it tough.
“We are providing an additional $75 million this financial year for eligible councils to address local needs,” Dr McVeigh said.
“This is a terrible drought affecting the livelihoods and wellbeing of our farmers and regional communities, particularly those in New South Wales and Queensland. This fund targets those most seriously impacted by the drought.”
The funding can go towards a range of projects, including:
- Employing local contractors to undertake repairs and maintenance
- Upgrading or building new community facilities
- Holding events and undertaking drought-relief activities
- Carting potable water into communities for drinking and bathing
Councils will be invited to submit appropriate projects, which address local conditions and needs. The program will prioritise projects that use local businesses to the greatest degree possible.
For more information visit: http://regional.gov.au/regional/programs/drought-communities.aspx
