Maranoa MP David Littleproud has secured over $9 million towards community building projects in Outback Queensland to stimulate the local economy and boost regional tourism, as part the Coalition Federal Government’s Economic Recovery Plan for Australia.
“I’m proud to see our regional communities getting their fair share in 2020-21 Budget, with funding to flow to priority community building and local infrastructure projects, supporting the local economy at the time it is needed most,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Outback Queensland areas of Barcoo, Diamantina, Quilpie and Bulloo will benefit from $9,154,123 through extensions to the Building Better Regions Fund, Drought Communities Programme Extension (DCPE) and the Stronger Communities Programme.
“This funding will drive community-led recovery by supporting local councils and community groups in Maranoa to deliver the projects that matter most to them, to boost local jobs and help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are continuing support for the Building Better Regions Fund with $200 million towards a fifth round, including $100 million dedicated to tourism-related infrastructure supporting the regions to recover from COVID-19.
“Projects like the Eromanga Natural History Museum Stage 2, supported by $3.6 million through the BBRF, will help to build community spirit in the Quilpie shire and drive important economic and tourism benefits for Outback Queensland.
“$1.7 Million in BBRF funding will go towards the Bulloo Independent Living Units to support older residents who want to remain in their community, a project that will improve community facilities while also creating jobs in the Bulloo shire.
“Maranoa communities will continue to benefit from the $335.5 million Drought Communities Program Extension, with local infrastructure projects and drought related activities nearing completion across the electorate.”
Total funding allocations for Outback Queensland areas under the Building Better Regions Fund, Drought Communities Programme Extension (DCPE) and the Stronger Communities Programme:
Barcoo shire: $1,046,250
Bulloo shire: $2,785,110
Diamantina shire: $1,000,000
Quilpie shire: $4,322,763
