Member for Bega Andrew Constance has today announced that Eurobodalla Shire Council will this month receive their first instalment payment of $3,348,520 from a Federal Government grant to help the council deliver vital services and infrastructure for the Eurobodalla Shire.
Mr Constance said the funds, which are administered by the NSW Government are for projects such as fixing roads, funding new infrastructure and investing in environmental programs.
The Financial Assistance Grants scheme provides funding in two parts – the first is open for councils to use the funding on local priorities and the second is specifically for roads.
Mr Constance said the initiative gives councils the freedom to fund projects the community needs the most.
“The council can spend the grant money how, when and on what they choose, including infrastructure renewal and maintenance of local roads and bridges.”
“I want to thank Senator Fiona Nash for restoring the estimated 3.4 per cent indexation, which will provide an additional $24 million to our state’s councils,” Mr Constance said.
Eurobodalla Mayor Liz Innes is pleased that indexation has been restored at a level of 3.4 per cent.
“The Financial Assistance Grants support is particularly important for regional NSW councils,” she said.
NSW Local Government Minister Gabrielle Upton welcomed the funding, which the NSW Government administers.
“We want every dollar that goes into Local Government to count for every ratepayer,” Ms Upton said.
“This Federal Government program provides councils with another boost to support local projects and services.”
Federal Local Government Minister Senator Fiona Nash said the early distribution was part of a suite of measures aimed at benefitting regional Australia.
“This allows councils to start projects early, or earn interest on this money, or it may help them put up their contribution for grants applications for projects in their area,” Minister Nash said.
“Along with the reinstatement of indexation for Financial Assistance Grants, the Building Better Regions Fund, Roads to Recovery and Bridges to Renewal, we’re looking after local councils.” Media Release
