More communities impacted by past water buybacks will be able to receive an economic boost under the second round of the Murray Darling Basin Economic Development Program.
Nationals Senator for NSW, Perin Davey, said communities across the State including Moree, Narromine, Wentworth, and Berrigan can benefit from the $15 million available in this round.
“The first round, which went to communities such as Wakool in my area, created work and business where it was needed the most. It just makes sense to expand it to more regions,” Senator Davey said.
“The Nationals know that the past practice of water recovery through buybacks didn’t just hurt irrigators, the impact was felt by the entire community.
“We are focussed on getting those communities going again by investing in community projects that not only boost jobs and business but will have a lasting impact.
“We are looking for applications for projects to boost the local economy both during the build and in the long run.”
Senator Davey said projects funded through round one included local tourism projects to bring more visitors into the Basin as well as leadership training, health services, and wild dog fencing.
“This funding goes directly to councils or organisations that know what is needed in their own region.
“This is not Government telling the community what they need, this is the Government providing the funding so the community can build what they have identified is needed,” Senator Davey said.
Eligible organisations include councils, indigenous corporations, cooperatives, incorporated associations such as clubs, and not-for-profit organisations. The round closes on 20 January 2020.
For more information and to apply visit GrantsHub: https://www.communitygrants.gov.au/
ENDS.
NSW eligible regions: Berrigan, Bourke, Brewarrina, Coomealla, Deniboota, Denimein, Finley, Hay, Menindee, Moree, Narromine, Pooncarie, Trangie, Walgett, Wee Waa, Wentworth, West Berriquin, Wilcannia