BUDGET WIN: Forbes Shire Council has many reasons to smile after vital funds for infrastructure were allotted in the federal budget last week.
In a real win for the community, Forbes Shire Council has received $2,445,132 in direct funding under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, it was announced in the Coalition’s Federal Budget last week.
The budget boost is a shot in the arm for Forbes and is one of more than 100 projects across the Tablelands, Riverina and Central West approved for funding.
National’s Leader, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development and Riverina MP Michael McCormack highlighted the importance of local infrastructure projects in relation to the nation’s recovery from COVID.
“This program is delivering vital infrastructure through local councils (like Forbes) – they know best where this money needs to be spent in their Local Government Area,” Mr McCormack said.
“A broader range of projects will now be eligible for funding under the LRCI, enabling local governments to pursue larger, more complex developments to deliver even greater benefits for their local communities.”
The new program will also support jobs (850 so far across the regions), construction businesses and economic growth, it will also improve road safety and bolster the resilience of our local road networks, helping Australians get home sooner and safer.
“I will continue to work closely with local councils to ensure local projects get under way, supporting jobs and businesses as soon as possible,” Mr McCormack said.
“It really is a great boost for Forbes.”
Councils will be able to access funding for Phase 3 of this funding program from 31 January 2022, with the program extended until 30 June 2023.