Applications open again for Building Better Regions Fund

APPLICATIONS have opened for the $200 million allocated to round 3 of the federal government’s Building Better Regions Fund.

Rounds one and two of the fund have invested almost $10 million to 18 projects, including the redevelopment of Cottage by The Sea, a multi-purpose indoor sports stadium in Torquay North and a new indoor heated pool for Apollo Bay.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the projects delivered under Round 3 would ensure regional and remote communities continue to thrive.

“We have had fantastic outcomes over the first two funding rounds of the Coalition government’s Building Better Regions Fund and I expect Round 3 to deliver more of the same with up to $45 million earmarked to increase tourism,” Mr McCormack said.

“Tourism is a major industry in many of our regional areas, and this investment in tourism-related infrastructure projects will draw more visitors to remote and regional Australia and the economic benefits they bring with them.

“In this third round we are investing a further $200 million – a clear indication of the Government’s commitment to investing in projects that create jobs, build regional economies and ensure strong and resilient regional communities into the future.”

Corangamite federal member Sarah Henderson is urging communities in the Geelong region to take advantage of the fund and get local infrastructure and community-building projects of all sizes off the ground.

She said the projects already funded in the Geelong region would drive economic growth and deliver lasting benefits.

“This fund is dedicated to unlocking the economic potential in remote and regional Australia and I encourage all eligible organisations with a great project idea to apply for the third round of funding,” she said.

Applications close on November 15. For more information or to apply, head to infrastructure.gov.au/bbrf.