Drought-affected regional communities in Mallee are set to receive a boost with six new local infrastructure and community projects, as part of a $207 million investment under Round 4 of the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government’s highly successful Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF).

Federal Member for Mallee, Anne Webster said the community-based projects were a positive investment in the region’s future.

“This is a fantastic outcome for Mallee, with 6 projects receiving $4.2 million under this latest round of funding,” Dr Webster said.

“These include the Ouyen Livestock Exchange, Swan Hill Rural City Councils sporting facilities in Swan Hill and Lake Boga, Charlton 2020, Buloke Shire roads and the Birchip streetscape, which will drive economic growth and local jobs at a time we need them most.

“I was overjoyed to learn that Woodbine Inc. in Warracknabeal has been successful in their application for $1.2 million to renovate their existing facilities and construct a new platinum level disability accommodation centre for their residents.

“Woodbine is one of the largest employers in Yarriambiack Shire, with over 180 staff, and project will create new jobs and provide ongoing, superior care of Woodbine’s clients.  Another six jobs will be created for the duration of the construction and refurbishment of the facilities.

“Communities in Mallee are continuing to show amazing spirit and strength as they support each other through these tough times and I am glad to see this latest round of BBRF will provide much-needed support at such a crucial time.

“These game-changing projects will transform communities and help ensure our productive and vibrant region remains strong, resilient and prosperous in the long term and I look forward to seeing these projects boost economic and community prosperity right across Mallee” Dr Webster said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said this funding injection to support 163 new infrastructure and community projects across drought-affected regional Australia came at a critical time for communities.

“Regional Australians have endured the devastating effects of a prolonged drought which has affected communities across the country for many years,” Mr McCormack said.

“In addition, regional Australia has withstood one of the most devastating bushfire seasons, floods and now a global pandemic – to say they’ve been hit hard in recent times, is an understatment.

“Their resilience will lead Australia’s recovery through grass-roots projects – creating jobs, boosting local economies and growing confidence in regional communities as a great place to live, work and invest.

“BBRF projects strengthen our local economies and drive much-needed local procurement, with thousands of jobs expected to be supported throughout regional Australia – delivering career pathways and enabling people to stay in the very communities they grew up in.”

Minister for Drought David Littleproud said it was important now more than ever for the Australian Government to continue supporting drought-affected regions.

“Through the BBRF, the Australian Government is continuing its long-standing commitment to regional Australia, making vital local projects a reality, driving economic development and creating stronger partnerships across our regional communities,” Mr Littleproud said.

“We have seen outstanding outcomes from the first three rounds of the BBRF and the drought-focused fourth round will continue that trend by funding critical local infrastructure projects.

“This latest round is an opportunity to support and work together with the one and a half million Australians affected by drought.”

For a full list of successful projects, please visit www.business.gov.au/bbrf