Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister, Kristy McBain says an additional $250 million in funding and a deadline extension for Phase 4 of the LRCI program will support councils to plan for larger and more complex projects.
“We’ve increased both the funding amount and the delivery window for Phase 4 of the LRCI program, because we know that this will support councils to plan for larger or more complex projects that make a bigger impact in their community,” Minister McBain said today.
“I’ve met with close to 200 local councils since May last year, and the resounding feedback has been that this extension will enable them to progress their higher-priority projects – and now this work can commence.”
In March, the Government extended project construction timelines for Phases 1–3 of the program. Councils will now have until 30 June 2024 to complete works, giving them an extra year on the LRCI construction timeframes for all three phases.
She said the latest phase of the funding program will build on around 9,500 projects supported nationwide through Phases 1-3.
The additional $250 million investment is available to councils classified as rural, regional or outer-urban to spend on road projects – an eligibility change that sparked concern amongst council advocacy bodies today.
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King says 466 of Australia’s 550 councils will benefit from the extra funding.
She said the Government had drawn on the Australian Classification of Local Governments, as a robust framework underpinning the determination of eligible councils for the additional funding.
“We are delivering our election commitment of a further $250 million through Phase 4 to prioritise road upgrades in regional, rural and outer urban areas,” said Minister King.
“We know many councils across the country are struggling to maintain and improve their local road networks – especially following repeated flooding and other natural disasters in recent times.
“We have listened to councils and are standing stand side-by-side with local governments to support them in their vital role in delivering critical infrastructure for their communities.”
Individual council allocations are available on the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program website.
