The Morrison Government has approved $1.6 million in funding for six local infrastructure projects as part of its $1.5 billion Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program, which is supporting local jobs, businesses and boosting the economy during COVID-19.
Federal Member for Flinders, the Hon. Greg Hunt MP, said getting shovels in the ground on local construction projects was important for maintaining jobs and economic growth on the Mornington Peninsula.
“Every single job we support makes a huge difference in our local community, now and as we build our way out of the pandemic,” Mr Hunt said.
“That is why we have moved quickly to approve funding to flow to improve roads on French Island, the construction of new footpaths in Tootgarook, Hastings, Mount Martha and Capel Sound, as well as improvements to pedestrian safety in Somerville.
“Not only will this new program support jobs, construction businesses and economic growth, it will also improve road safety, helping Australians get home sooner and safer.
“We will work closely with the Mornington Peninsula Shire to ensure local projects get underway and supporting jobs and businesses as soon as possible.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the projects funded under the Program will improve the quality of life of Australians and have lasting economic and social benefits for local communities.
“Our funding boost will help communities across Australia accelerate priority projects to get people into jobs and stimulate our economy,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“We know how important our support is to communities who have faced the combined effects of drought, bushfires and now COVID-19, which is why we are backing projects to create employment and business opportunities while cutting travel times, as well as making our roads and communities safer.
“Having only announced the program in late May, we are moving decisively to deliver the support councils and communities need to get through this pandemic and get back on their feet.”
In May 2020, the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government also pre-paid $1.3 billion of this year’s Financial Assistance Grant to provide untied funding for all local councils across Australia to spend on local priorities.
More information on the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program is available at investment.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure_investment/local-roads-community-infrastructure-program.
