Funding scheme allows rural communities to take charge of their future

Rural and remote communities wanting to take charge of their future will receive a helping hand from the Queensland Government’s Our Place, Our Future initiative.

The Minister for Communities Warren Pitt said the Queensland Government would provide $7.72 million over three years through the initiative to increase the capacity of rural and remote communities to own and manage their future.

Mr Pitt said there were two categories of funding available — one for planning and engagement and another for project implementation.

“Planning and engagement funds are designed to help communities engage members in developing plans or strategies that may lead to longer-term projects,” he said.

“Project implementation funding is available for projects that activate existing community plans, social plans or strategic plans.

“To be eligible for this category of funding, communities will need to show that they have already engaged the community in establishing priorities and plans.

“This may include leadership development and training, projects that celebrate local history or activities that attract investment and skilled workers to rural communities.

“The applications will need to show evidence that all sections of the community will have input into the project. For this reason I expect each application to be as unique as the community from which it comes.”

The Department of Communities will accept applications throughout the funding period with closing dates of 5 February, 30 April, 30 July and 22 October 2007.

The Our Place, Our Future initiative is a component of the $30 million Blueprint for the Bush Strengthening Rural Communities Strategy. Further information about the availability of funding is on the www.communities.qld.gov.au website.

Media contact: Joe Begley 3235 4280