Funding boost for Southern Downs

THE Southern Downs Regional Council will receive a funding boost of close to $7 million as part of the Federal Government’s 2015-’16 Financial Assistance Grant programme.
Federal LNP Member for Maranoa Bruce Scott said the funding would provide local councils with the funding they needed for growth.
“The Southern Downs Council will receive a total of $6,897,414 during this financial year, this includes an early payment of $3,502,575,” he said.
“The Liberal National Coalition Government is committed to supporting local communities to deliver the services and facilities they need.
“One of the best things about this programme is that councils are free to spend this funding according to local priorities, including for infrastructure, health, recreation, environment, employment and road projects.”
The Southern Downs Regional Council will receive close to $850,000 in the first quarterly payment of the programme, with a total of $15.69 million paid last week to local councils in the Maranoa electorate.
“I’m looking forward to seeing councils target local priorities with this funding, along with additional funding provided by the Federal Government under the $3.2 billion Roads to Recovery, $500 million Black Spot and $300 million Bridges Renewal programmes,” Mr Scott said.
“During this financial year alone, councils in the electorate are set to receive a total of more than $126 million under this programme.
“This government is committed to ensuring our communities receive the funding needed to deliver the infrastructure and services of the 21st century.”