The Somerset region in line to share in $36.8 million for bushfire recovery projects, announced today by the Australian and Queensland governments.
The funding will support a range of projects in 13 local council areas determined by the Queensland Government that were most heavily impacted by last year’s bushfire season, including Somerset Regional Council.
Queensland communities affected by the 2019-20 bushfires are encouraged to talk to their council about priorities for recovery, so local needs can be reflected in the projects councils put forward for funding.
Senator Paul Scarr said that the opening of this fund is the next step for local communities starting to recover from the impacts of the fires and building a better future for their area.
“This funding will enable community-led recovery by funding projects that have been identified by local communities to support their local recovery needs. I have visited the Somerset region several times in the past month and have seen firsthand community projects in action. Local councils will have a key role in putting the right projects forward and I encourage the community to engage with Somerset Regional Council on recovery priorities.” said Senator Scarr.
Projects eligible for funding may include new infrastructure or upgrades to existing infrastructure, initiatives supporting entrepreneurship and innovation, local recovery support for businesses, local industry recovery, and neighbourhood and community activities that focus on building capacity, community strength and resilience.
For more information on Local Economic Recovery funding, including details on how to apply, please visit www.qra.qld.gov.au/LER
Councils can submit expressions of interest to the Queensland Reconstruction Authority by
7 September 2020.
Media contact Kit Philp, Office of Senator Paul Scarr, 0410 411 981
