Councils and not-for-profits are urged to apply for up to $10 million in Building Better Regions (BBR) grants.

Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said the $200 million round five of the BBR program provides grants from $20,000.

“The BBR program provides up to $10 million for investment-ready infrastructure projects as well as a Community Investment Stream,” Mr Neumann said.

“Eligible organisations in our community should apply for funding for new or expanded local events, strategic regional plans, or leadership and capability strengthening activities, as well as important infrastructure projects.

“This round has a special focus on tourism, which has been seriously impacted by COVID-19 and the 2019 bushfires.”

Mr Neumann said it was important that projects were pursued in the rural areas of Ipswich, the Somerset Region, as well as fringe suburbs such as Deebing Heights, Mount Crosby, White Rock and South Ripley.

“This region has not fared too well in previous funding rounds, with the Morrison-McCormack Government awarding 94 per cent of funds to LNP seats.

“This region has been completely neglected by Scott Morrison and Michael McCormack, who previously used this funding pool as an opportunity to bolster their election chances in their own seats.

“That neglect has been compounded by the devastating impact of the bushfires last Summer and the ongoing hit to our economy and communities by COVID-19.

“I urge local Councils and not-for-profits to make a strong case to ensure we get our fair share of funding.

“This kind of funding will support job creation, social cohesion, community connectivity and economic development.

“It’s the type of shot-in-the-arm we need at this time.”

Mr Neumann encouraged organisations to seek his support as part of their applications. More information on the grants is available here: https://www.regional.gov.au/regional/programs/building-better-regions-fund.aspx.

To access the map of eligible regions, head here: http://maps.infrastructure.gov.au/BuildingBetterRegionsFund