John Bowler

John Bowler

Former Minister for Local Government; Employment Protection; Racing and Gaming; Goldfields-Esperance and Great Southern

    Regional Investment Fund delivers benefits for WA regions

    7/09/2005 12:00 AM
     
    07/09/05

    The Western Australian Government’s Regional Investment Fund (RIF) has continued to deliver many benefits for the regions.

    Local Government and Regional Development Minister John Bowler said 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 by regional communities to services.

    “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,” Mr Bowler said.

    “Through the fund, we have been able to support many great projects and ventures, including the Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory, the Geraldton CBD and Foreshore Redevelopment, the Gravity Discovery Centre at Gingin and the upgrade of main streets in Leonora and Northam.

    “Funding has also been provided to the second stage of the reconstruction of the Derby Airport runway, the Port Hedland and Roebourne Enhancement Schemes, the Shark Bay Interpretive Centre, the redevelopment programs at Fairbridge Farm and the Denmark Education and Innovation Centre.

    “Importantly, we have also been able to provide vital support to many indigenous communities in the regions.”

    The Minister 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 regions.

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

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

    Minister's office: 9213 6500