³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾

The Federal Liberal and ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾s Government is continuing to back drought-affected communities, today providing nearly $1.5 million in funding towards 39 new projects under the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal’s Tackling Tough Times Together program.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said rural and regional Australia is continuing to show amazing spirit and resilience as they support each other through these tough times.

“Large parts of regional Australia have received some good rainfall over the past few months, with many farmers having the best start to the winter sowing season in years, but the drought is far from over,” Mr McCormack said.

“We are absolutely committed to standing side by side with these hard-working communities – whether it’s through drought, the recent bushfires or the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am glad to see these grants providing much-needed support to our hard-hit regional communities at such a crucial time, with this latest round of funding to be delivered to community groups.”

Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said projects supported through the program help rural communities cope with the stress of the drought on families and businesses while contributing to the local economy and infrastructure renewal.

“Many projects funded in this round will help reduce volunteer fatigue, enhance social participation and boost the operations of local not-for-profit organisations, which are all crucial to drought-affected regional communities,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Projects funded in this round include the Outback Drowning Prevention Program for youth in Alpha, a Recovery Festival in Condobolin and an airstrip at Parachilna to better connect the community with the rest of Australia, the economy and critical services such as the Royal Flying Doctor.

“We are proud to support the Foundation’s crucial work of stimulating regional economies while strengthening social connections in drought-affected communities.

“Standing together is important now more than ever and communities can be rest assured the Government continues to have their back, with money already flowing through rolling grants as part of our more than $8 billion Drought Support Package.”