Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Riverina Michael McCormack has delivered further financial relief for Bland Shire as part of a comprehensive drought relief package announced last week.
The funding is part of a $1 billion extension of the Government’s existing suite of drought relief measures.
Local Government Areas which are eligible under the Drought Communities Programme will receive this additional payment.
Mr McCormack said the money would help to stimulate the local economy and keep jobs in the community.
“Bland Shire will receive further funding as part of the $138.9 million of Roads to Recovery top-up funding for the 128 eligible LGAs,” Mr McCormack said.
“This funding boost is on top of the 25 per cent increase announced in the Federal Budget in April.
“This will help keep local jobs in the community as well as address any road infrastructure backlogs in the area.
“I know communities throughout the Riverina and Central West are suffering the effects of the prolonged dry spell-the Federal Government is continuing to work with local communities to take the pressure off what is fast becoming one of the worst droughts in our history.
“Our regional communities need to know that we will always support them in these times of trouble-we will continue to listen and respond as required.
“We will not walk away from our communities, not now, not ever.”
Further drought support:
- An additional $1 million for each of the 122 councils and shires eligible under the Drought Communities Programme if they need it
- $138.9 million additional Roads to Recovery funding in calendar year 2020 for the 128 Local Government Areas eligible for the Drought Communities Programme Extension
