All nine Local Government Areas in Indi will be supported as part of the program, which will be delivered via local governments across Australia.
The funding represents more than $9 million investment in Indi and is aimed at supporting local jobs and businesses, and boost local economies struggling under the effects of COVID-19.
Federal Senator for Victoria Bridget McKenzie said the package would bolster spirits as well as the economy.
New VLocity trains to increase capacity on North-East line
“I’m delighted to see these councils included because it has been such a tough 2020 for the north east with fires and then COVID-19,” Senator McKenzie said.
“The assistance will get locals into jobs and upgrade key infrastructure and roads. I’m sure Towong and Alpine, which have a small population and thus fewer ratepayers, will appreciate this economic boost.
“Every single job we support will make a huge difference in those communities, which have taken a major double hit to their economy because of fire and this pandemic.
“Not only will this package support jobs, construction businesses and the economy across Indi and the north east, it will improve our local roads and amenities to help our communities rebuild and stay connected as tourists return.
Hollywood star joins PEEP for a sing-along and chat
“I will work with the councils here in the north east and upper Murray to make sure projects get rolling to support jobs and businesses as soon as possible.”
The new program is based on the successful Roads to Recovery program and will enable local councils to deliver priority projects with a focus on upgrades and maintenance to local roads and community infrastructure.
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.
Vale Ken Whan OAM and Philip Messenger OAM
Local road projects to be delivered under the program include, but are not limited to, constructing or improving bridges and tunnels, street lighting, and heavy vehicle facilities, such as rest areas.
A broad range of community infrastructure projects will be eligible including new or upgraded bicycle and walking paths, community facilities, and picnic shelters and barbecue facilities at parks.
Guidelines for the program will be provided directly to local governments by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications.
● Allocations under the Financial Assistance Grant and Local Road and Community Infrastructure programs can be found at this link.
If you would like to send a letter to the editor on this, or any subject, click this link
5°C