Eight Queensland regional councils are set to receive a major funding boost through the Growing Regions Program, sharing in almost one third of $159 million in federal funding awarded to the state.
The almost $50 million in funding was secured by Peak Services’ Grant Office.
Boulia Shire Council will benefit from over $10 million in funding to build a new community hub.
Boulia Shire Mayor, Eric Britton, said that the preparation for the funding took four years with community consultation, collaboration with Griffith University and external consultants to bring the project to maturity and submission.
“This funding announcement is a big win for Boulia’s future,” Mayor Britton said.
“We are excited to finally be able to construct the Community Hub to serve the needs of the people of Boulia Shire well into the future.”
After the Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council administration building was damaged in the 2023 cyclone, council will use its $7.4 million of funding to rebuild and incorporate a community hub while simultaneously creating local jobs.
Wujal Wujal Council CEO, Kiley Hanslow, said that Council will rebuild this crucial council administration facility, restoring access to government services, and incorporate a community development hub into the build to provide a space for the community to gather, learn, and grow.
“The construction phase will create jobs, stimulate the local economy, and help the community recover and move forward,” Ms Hanslow said.
“We’re committed to ensuring the project creates jobs for the Wujal Wujal community. This is not only about getting the infrastructure back in place but also about building skills and creating long-term employment opportunities within the community.”
Blackall-Tambo Regional Council will receive $14.9 million to build a cultural precinct where the district’s culture and heritage can be preserved in climate-controlled spaces with an indoor and outdoor gallery and exhibition spaces, a museum garden, amenities and a car park.
Blackall-Tambo Regional Council Mayor, Andrew Martin, said that it is important to preserve the history and culturally significant memorabilia of the region for generations to come.
“I am looking forward to the preservation of the history and culture of two of the oldest towns in the central west, which will also embrace those of our traditional occupants,” Mayor Martin said.
Peak Services Group CEO, Brett Fraser, congratulated the successful councils and commended the Grant Office team’s efforts in supporting these transformative projects.
“This is a great result for Queensland communities, and I extend my congratulations to all councils on their successful applications, which will positively impact community wellbeing, infrastructure and economic growth,” Mr Fraser said.
“Securing a substantial portion of the competitive funding pool highlights the effectiveness of the partnerships between Queensland local governments and our Grant Office – this is something we’re hugely proud of.”
