Media Statements - Regional Investment Fund delivering widespread benefits for the Wheatbelt

8/9/05

The Western Australian Government’s Regional Investment Fund (RIF) has continued to deliver many benefits for the regions, Wheatbelt Minister Kim Chance said today.

Mr Chance said the RIF had funded more than 850 projects, leveraged more than $200million in additional investment and contributed to the creation of more than 4,100 new jobs.

The initial $75million RIF was established to assist with the economic and social development of the regions and to improve the access to services by regional communities.

“It has been instrumental in providing a major boost to infrastructure and business investment through a wide range of economic, social, cultural and environmental projects in the region,” the Minister said.

"Through the fund, we have been able to provide financial assistance for many great projects and ventures in the region, including the Main Street and CBD refurbishment in Northam and the Gravity Discovery Centre building in Gingin.

“Other projects include the development of regional heritage tourism strategies and assisting Country Arts to bring its Out There in Focus regional youth arts project, to the region.”

Mr Chance said the building of partnerships between industry, community, local and State Governments on worthwhile projects would help to create a viable and sustainable future for the region.

“I encourage regional residents to take advantage of future RIF funding opportunities available through the continued commitment of $80million over four years,” he said.

“The Gallop Government is ensuring regional WA receives its fair share.”

Further information about the Regional Investment Fund is available from the Wheatbelt Development Commission at http://www.wheatbelt.wa.gov.au or the Department of Local Government and Regional Development at http://www.dlgrd.wa.gov.au/regionDev/financialAssist/RIF.asp

Minister's Office - 9213 6700