Local groups get crack at $200m for regions

FAR North Queensland community organisations have a third chance to secure some of an additional $200 million in this year’s Federal Budget as part of the Building Better Regions Fund.

Northern based federal Senator Ian Macdonald (above) said he was keen for the region to receive its fair share of funding.

“It is a direct investment into the economic and social infra- structure in our community,” he said.

“Recognising the importance of the tourism sector to regional economies up to $45 million of this additional investment will be directed to tourism-related infrastructure projects.”

Round two is currently under assessment with decisions expected towards the middle of this year.