The Palaszczuk Government has released $60 million in funding through the Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program.
Speaking at the Local Government Association of Queensland Bush Councils Convention in Charters Towers last week, Local Government Minister Mark Furner said councils would benefit from a new approach to the program.
“In previous years, the funding was allocated to councils on a yearly basis to help with building or improving vital infrastructure,” Mr Furner said.
“We have listened to council’s feedback and in consultation with the Local Government Association of Queensland, tried to address some of the specific challenges they face.
“Extending the funding from one year to two, allows councils the flexibility to undertake works at any stage during the two-year period, freed from the constraints of applying for, and delivering projects within a one-year timeframe.
Grants and subsidies is an area the LGAQ has been seeking reform across both state and federal government as part of its Advocacy Action Plan.
In a letter to Senator Fiona Nash, Minister for Local Government and Territories, in the context of the 2015-2016 Local Government National Report, the LGAQ said significant progress had been made at a state level,
“The Queensland Government implemented important reform to local government grants and subsidies, consolidating three separate funding programs and streaming the application process to allow councils to better plan, fund and maintain infrastructure” The letter said.
“The LGAQ looks forward to expanding this work across State Government departments and commencing a conversation with the Federal Government”.
For more information on grants and subsidies go here.