The Queensland Government has released $60 million in funding to help local councils build or improve vital infrastructure through its refined Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program.
Previously, this funding to assist with building or improving infrastructure was allocated to councils on a yearly basis. The funding is now being extended from one year to two, which state Local Government Minister Mark Furner said will allow councils the flexibility to undertake works at any stage during that period, and frees them from the constraints of applying for, and delivering projects within a one-year timeframe.
“This should help to decrease the number of extension applications by councils, reduce the administrative burden and cut red tape,” said Mr. Furner.
“It also means that with extended timeframe to complete projects, councils can think bigger in terms of the projects they submit for funding assessment, ‘stage’ projects over two financial years, and forecast with greater confidence the requirements for future council budgets.
Projects eligible for the funding include constructing and upgrading essential community infrastructure as well as disaster resilience and preparedness projects, asset condition assessments and asset geocoding.
“This funding is particularly crucial for smaller councils with a limited capacity to self-fund some large projects,” said Mr. Furner.
“All 77 local governments are eligible to apply,” he added.
More information is available at www.dilgp.qld.gov.au