Building Better Region Fund on the agenda

MEMBER for Barker Tony Pasin MP says an elected Dutton Liberal Government will re-establish the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF), providing a critical source of funding for infrastructure and community development projects in Barker.

“This is fantastic news for every local council and community group that’s been crying out for reliable funding,” Mr Pasin said.

Between 2017 and 2022, the Building Better Regions Fund delivered real results in the Limestone Coast, making rural and regional projects possible such as:

Second home for Ryder – Cheshire – Mount GambierNew Bordertown Racing & Community CentreSouth Australian Volunteer Fire Fighters MuseumMount Gambier Airport RedevelopmentRobe Golf Course ExpansionProject 100: Coonawarra Community HallMil Lel Hall and Community Hub renovation projectKingston SE Main Streets Stimulus ProjectBordertown Caravan Park upgradeMillicent Basketball Stadium Central Player, Spectator and Community AreaBlue Lake Mini Golf CourseMr Pasin said the Building Better Regions Fund will help strengthen local economies and create more local jobs.

“The Albanese Government axed this program as part of $10 billion worth of regional programs stripped away when Labor was elected and imposed a two-year funding drought for the regions.”

“Labor’s neglect of rural and regional Australia must be rectified.

“That’s why, if elected, a Liberal Government will restore the Building Better Regions Fund with a $250 million investment in 2025-26 providing an ongoing open opportunity for communities to submit applications on a timeframe when they are ready”, Mr Pasin said.

“The re-established fund will invest in community initiatives, events and infrastructure projects that drive regional economic growth and resilience and will be solely open to regional, rural and remote communities.”

Originally launched by the Coalition in 2017, the BBRF delivered nearly $1.4 billion in funding for new infrastructure, tourism, and community development initiatives across rural and regional Australia.