Queensland Senator Matt Canavan has welcomed the opening today of applications under the Australian Government’s $1 billion National Stronger Regions Fund.

He urged local communities to nominate infrastructure projects for funding, particularly in the Central Queensland region, where his office has been established in Rockhampton.

“This new fund – with funding of $1 billion over five years – will target projects that deliver priority economic development and small scale community infrastructure at the local level,” Senator Canavan said.

“It will support investment in priority economic and infrastructure areas from freight and transport projects to convention centres and major multi-purpose sports and community facilities. 

“The Fund will enhance the economic growth, activity and output of our regions, and sustain these gains into the future, by providing between $20,000 and $10 million for up to 50% of the cost of projects.

“This is an important initiative in rural and regional Queensland, because the Fund will invest in important infrastructure projects nominated by local communities, ensuring Australia’s regions are investing in their own future.”

He added that the Fund encourages partnerships, with project proponents engaging with the private sector, and possibly local and State governments.

The Guidelines for the National Stronger Regions Fund detail the type of project proposals sought, how to lodge an application, how assessments will be conducted, and critical programme dates. To access the guidelines, and to lodge a Round One application, visit - www.infrastructure.gov.au/nsrf.