Communities struggling with effects of COVID-19 welcome federal funding boost

The Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program, which includes $101m in new money, can be used to build community infrastructure such as improving bridges, street lighting, heavy vehicle rest areas and walking tracks.

The federal government has also brought forward $1.3 billion of the 2020-21 Financial Assistance Grant payment, delivering a $1.8b boost across Australia.

LGAQ president Mark Jamieson thanked Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack and federal Local Government Minister Mark Coulton for providing the further contribution to assist with economic recovery.

Cr Jamieson said councils had been wearing significant revenue losses due to the pandemic and the impacts of the national public health directions.

At the same time, they have also been providing support and stimulus to vulnerable businesses and households.

"The decision of the Commonwealth to also bring forward Financial Assistance Grant funding is welcome and will bring much-needed certainty as councils frame their budgets," he said.

"Councils will continue to work with the federal government to ensure extra funding flows in future years so the economic sustainability of councils and their communities is maintained.

"This week has seen incredible leadership from all tiers of government to help mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 economic crisis on local communities.

"The only way communities thrive is if all three levels of government work together."

Related: COVID stimulus road funding bypasses SW Qld

The new federal program is based on the successful Roads to Recovery program where the formula takes into consideration road length and population, and is based on recommendations of Local Government Grants Commissions.

The Maranoa electorate stands to benefit to the tune of $25m and MP David Littleproud said eligible road projects included constructing or improving bridges and tunnels, street lighting, and heavy vehicle facilities such as rest areas.

"Projects to improve public infrastructure include upgrading bicycle and walking paths, community facilities, picnic shelters and barbeque facilities at parks," he said. "I will be working closely with councils to make sure projects get under way to support jobs and businesses as soon as possible."

More than $70 million under the new arrangements has been committed to the Kennedy electorate, according to Senator Susan McDonald.

She said FAGS grants were by far the most popular topic when she spoke with northern councils from Cairns to Charters Towers and out to Winton, who were all battling shrinking rates bases and increasing costs.

"Every single job we support makes a huge difference in our local communities, now and as we navigate out of the coronavirus pandemic," she said.

"Not only will this package support jobs, construction businesses and the economy throughout the north and west, it will improve our local roads and provide for new and upgraded amenities to help communities stay connected."

Maranoa council allocations:

Allocations under the Financial Assistance Grant and Local Road and Community Infrastructure programs can be found at https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/lrci