Funding to build or improve infrastructure and improve community capabilities in drought affected areas has been announced by the Australian Government. The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development have announced $200 million in the 2019-20 Budget for Round Four of the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF). Round Four will support drought-affected regions by targeting projects that will benefit communities affected by drought.

The $841.6 million BBRF supports the Australian Government’s commitment to create jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities into the future. The fund invests in projects located in, or benefiting eligible regional areas outside the major capital cities.

Grant funding is available through two funding streams:

1.   The Infrastructure Projects Stream supports investment ready projects which involve the construction of new infrastructure, or the upgrade or extension of existing infrastructure that provide economic and social benefits to regional and remote areas. Grants are from $20,000 up to $10 million.
2.  The Community Investments Stream will fund, new or expanded local events, strategic regional or sectoral plans, or leadership and capability strengthening activities. These projects will deliver economic and social benefits to regional and remote communities. Grants of between $5,000 and $1 million are available. However, given the nature of eligible projects we expect most grants will be under $100,000.

Applicants should seek the support of your Regional Development Australia (RDA) Committee for your project  before applying.

Who can apply?
To be eligible you must have an ABN and be one of the following incorporated entities:

–  an incorporated not for profit organisation. As a not for profit organisation you must
demonstrate your not for profit status through one of the following:
* Current Australian Charities and Not for profits Commission’s (ACNC) Registration.
* State or territory incorporated association status.
* Constitutional documents and/or Articles of Association that demonstrate the not for profit
character of the organisation.

–  an Australian local government agency or body as defined in section 4.1 and the
glossary of the guidelines.

–  non-distributing co-operatives.

The full eligibility criteria including eligible locations are in the grant opportunity guidelines.

Round Four of the BBRF is now open and closes on the 19th December, further information can be found at the Building Better Regions Fund Website or by contacting Regional Development Australia Whyalla and Eyre Peninsula on 8682 6588.