The Federal Government has announced that it will bring forward more than $1.7 billion in untied funding for councils nationwide.
This represents 50 per cent of the Financial Assistant Grant allocations for 2025/26, and will be paid before 30 June to flow onto councils as soon as possible – ensuring shovel-ready projects and essential services continue seamlessly.
This early payment of untied funding is welcome news for all councils, and particularly critical for those facing cash flow pressures or recovering from recent extreme weather, ensuring they can continue to deliver for their communities.
Importantly, providing this funding in an untied manner allows local governments to be flexible and allocate it to the community’s priorities as they see fit.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said that the government strives to be a reliable and responsive partner to local governments all around our country.
“That’s why we’re bringing forward this funding to support each and every council,” King said.
“By providing this financial assistance early, we’re providing certainty to councils that they can deliver on the priorities that matter most to their communities.”
Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister, Kristy McBain, said that the Federal Government remains committed to supporting local governments to ensure communities are receiving essential services, in particular when they are recovering from extreme weather.
“Local governments are the beating heart of Australia. In all seasons and weather, they make sure local services continue so Australians can enjoy a better quality of life,” McBain said.
“This funding will ensure they can get on with the jobs they do best, without any unnecessary delays.”
