$2.1m for a brighter future for the Southern Downs

October 12, 2021

The Liberal and Nationals Government is investing in the future of the Southern Downs with over $2.1 million in federal funding for five projects under Round 5 of our highly successful Building Better Regions Fund.

The Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery and Library will be expanded thanks to $2 million from the latest round of funding. Other projects also funded include upgrading the power supply at the Warwick Karting Club and three significant planning projects by the Southern Downs Regional Council and the Stanthorpe & Granite Belt Chamber of Commerce.

Federal Member for Maranoa, David Littleproud said the Government’s investment will deliver better facilities and create economic opportunities across the electorate.

“This is a proud day for the region in our fight to make sure we get our fair share,” Mr Littleproud said.

“The Government is backing these projects so local people have the facilities for the future, while creating jobs to boost our economic recovery.

“Each one of these projects has the potential to transform the Southern Downs. This is all part of our Government’s commitment to secure the future of regional Australia.”

Under Round 5 of the BBRF, the Government has committed almost $300 million to support 295 projects across regional Australia, which will create an estimated 9,900 jobs during the project period.

This latest funding round takes our total support through the BBRF to $1.38 billion across nearly 1,300 projects.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Government is focused on ensuring our regions remain strong.

“The Liberal and Nationals Government is continuing to work hard on behalf of Australians living in regional and remote communities,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“That’s why we’ve committed an additional $100 million under this latest round to take total funding to almost $300 million. This extra funding will support more projects, more jobs and create more economic opportunities in our regions to boost their recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Funding for these projects in Maranoa is a testament to the dedication of David Littleproud.

“Infrastructure upgrades funded in this latest round will ensure our regions remain great places to live and visit, while helping support important regional industries which create jobs.

“Our Government is committed to delivering the best outcomes for regional and remote Australia, which is why we are providing local businesses, industries and families with opportunities to get ahead.”

For a full list of successful projects, please visit: www.business.gov.au/bbrf

Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery and Stanthorpe Library Expansion		$2,000,000
Upgrade power supply – Warwick Karting Club		$20,250
Supply chain mapping strategy – Southern Downs Regional Council		$40,000
Strategic Plan Stanthorpe & Granite Belt Chamber of Commerce		$21,329
Residential Attraction Strategy Project – Southern Downs Regional Council		$25,000
Total		$2,106,579