Countdown for councils to snare Building our Regions funds

Regional councils have just a couple of days left to make their final bid for a share of $70 million of the State Government’s $375 million Building our Regions infrastructure program.

Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham told Parliament today councils should make a compelling business case by close of business tomorrow (EDS:Friday) for their shortlisted projects.

“We’re looking for critical infrastructure projects that deliver real benefits to local communities in terms of jobs and longer-term economic benefits,” he said.

“There’s 15 projects already under construction across the state from Round 1, supporting jobs and generating business opportunities in regional communities.

“Councils’ applications will undergo rigorous assessment by my Department of State Development and a committee of senior government executives.”

The first round of Building our Regions allocated more than $70 million across 42 projects and will support almost 700 jobs across the state. It also attracted a further $158 million investment from councils and other organisations.

“Round 2 of Building our Regions has been accelerated by six months to deliver more job creating projects throughout regional Queensland sooner,” he said.

“Successful applicants will be announced later in the year and construction will be underway no later than 30 June next year.”

For more information on Building our Regions visit http://statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/buildingourregions

ENDS                           18 August, 2016

Media contact:           Jan Martin     0439 341 314