Jon Ford

Jon Ford

Minister for Employment Protection; Regional Development; Fisheries; the Kimberley, Pilbara and Gascoyne

    Infrastructure funding support for regional projects now available

    6/02/2008 11:30 AM
     
    6/2/08

    Regional Development Minister Jon Ford today called for expressions of interest for the next round of the Regional Infrastructure Funding Program (RIFP) - a key component of the Carpenter Government’s four-year $80million Regional Investment Fund.

    Mr Ford was in Bunbury today to launch the fourth round of RIFP, worth $6million, with individual grants to start at $100,000.

    The Minister said the grants would be made available to support significant infrastructure projects in WA aimed at attracting regional investment, jobs or improving services.

    “These grants are primarily designed to support the sustainable development of regional Western Australia,” he said.

    “Local governments, State Government agencies and community organisations are encouraged to apply, as well as regional groups with projects which require assistance to meet the capital costs of industrial or transport infrastructure, tourism amenities, health and education facilities or other initiatives which help to attract and retain residents.”

    Mr Ford said RIFP had already provided significant funding to many important capital infrastructure projects throughout regional WA since it was launched by the State Government in 2001.

    “Through this program, we are boosting the capacity and confidence of regional communities, ensuring they have a fair share of infrastructure funding,” he said.

    “Examples of regional projects that have already benefited through the RIFP include: Bunbury Dolphin Discovery; the Fairbridge Village; Great Southern Regional Cattleyards; Carnarvon Boat Harbour; Broome Wharf; the Gravity Discovery Centre in Gingin; the Southern Forest Sculpture Walk in Northcliffe, a youth, community and arts centre in Carnamah and the upgrade of the Leonora main street.

    “The State Government is committed to strengthening regional development in WA and I strongly encourage eligible regional organisations to identify worthwhile projects in their regions that may be eligible for assistance.”

    Expressions of interest must be received by 5pm on Wednesday, March 12 at the Department of Local Government and Regional Development, Level 1, Dumas House, 2 Havelock Street, West Perth 6005.

    For more information about RIFP, contact the department on 9217 1463, free call 1800 620 511 or visit http://www.dlgrd.wa.gov.au/FinancialAssist/RIF.asp

    Minister's Office - 9213 7200