MORE FUNDING FOR LOCAL ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE PRIORITIES

The Albanese Government is delivering on our election commitment to provide an extra $250 million dollars for road projects in rural, regional and outer-urban areas under Phase 4 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman today announced that Blue Mountains City Council will receive $869,182 plus an additional $501,363 to support local road projects.

Phase 4 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program has already delivered $500 million to Australian councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects in their region, creating jobs and long-lasting benefits for communities. 

The additional $250 million investment is available to councils classified as rural, regional or outer-urban to spend on road projects.

466 of Australia’s 550 councils will benefit from the extra funding committed to by Labor at the last election.

The Government has drawn on the Australian Classification of Local Governments, as a robust framework underpinning the determination of eligible councils for this additional $250 million in funding.

In March, the Government extended project construction timelines for Phases 1–3 of the program. Councils across Australia will now have until 30 June 2024 to complete works, giving them a much-needed extra year on the LRCI construction timeframes for all three phases.

Individual council allocations are available on the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program website.

Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“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.

“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.”

Quotes attributable to Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister Kristy McBain:

“Phases 1-4 of the LRCI program involve $3.25 billion of Australia Government funding, with Phases 1-3 supporting around 9,500 projects nationwide.

“We recognise the positive difference LRCI-supported projects make to communities.

“We are steadfast in our support and recognition for local councils as trusted delivery partners of the crucial infrastructure and services communities need and deserve.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman MP: 

“Blue Mountains residents have seen how our local roads have been hit following repeated natural disasters.

“This funding, targeted at regions like ours who have suffered profoundly from fires, floods, and storms, will lead to better and safer roads.

“I’ll continue to work productively with Blue Mountains City Council to ensure residents see the improvements in our roads they deserve.”

Quotes attributable to Mayor, Clr Mark Greenhill:

“We welcome this latest funding announcement for the Blue Mountains, under Phase 4 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

“As we all know, our City has been battered by multiple natural disasters in recent years which has left an extraordinary damage bill.

“We