The Coalition Government is investing in the future of the Hunter with two local projects gaining funding under Round 5 of the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF).
The funding will see a dual zip line and a climbing tower constructed at the Crusader Union of Australia’s Lake Macquarie Camp and Conference Centre as well as funding a Growth and Action Plan study by Lake Macquarie Council, to forecast emerging hotspots for jobs, housing and services in the region.
Senator for NSW, Perin Davey said the Federal Government’s investment will deliver better facilities as well as economic opportunities for the Lake Macquarie region.
“We are backing these projects, because they are both designed to bring people and jobs to the region,” she said.
“The Conference Centre project will attract more local and regional organisations to make use of the adventure training facilities, securing jobs for the centre and boosting the local economy.
“The growth and action study will investigate resilience strategies for the Morisset area, forecast demand for jobs and housing in the Lake Macquarie region and develop an action plan to drive economic growth.
“I work closely with local councils and community groups to ensure the Government delivers facilities and services local communities in the Hunter need and want.
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 in Government are 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 Lake Macquarie is a testament to the dedication of Senator Davey working with locals on the ground to deliver for the region.
“Funding under the Building Better Regions Fund supports economic and social infrastructure for the long-term benefit of regional communities.
“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