Further investments in our regional communities
All Australians, including those living in regional communities, can share in the long‑term prosperity that comes from a more productive and stronger economy.
Investing in infrastructure
The $1 billion Regional Development Australia Fund is a significant investment in the economic and community infrastructure of our regions. This includes bridges, child care centres and sporting facilities.
These projects will align with the regional plans developed by Australia's 55 Regional Development Australia (RDA) committees to ensure they best fit the priorities of the region.
The first round will contribute up to $100 million of funding with another round to be held in late 2011.
Strengthening consultation with the regions
The Australian Government is working with regional communities to develop long‑term, creative solutions to local issues, including through the RDA committees.
RDA committees are about engaging local people to develop local solutions to community issues.
The Budget provides $20 million to strengthen the RDA committees' role in assisting the Government to advance local solutions to economic, social and environmental issues.
Supporting jobs and new opportunities
The Government is developing a more strategic approach to combating high unemployment in the regions.
We will invest $19 million over two years to fund 34 strategists to develop Regional Education, Skills and Jobs Plans. Funding of $45 million will also be provided to extend the Priority Employment Areas initiative, including Local Employment Coordinators.
The Government will provide $46 million over four years to establish the Carbon Farming Initiative to create a new income stream worth hundreds of millions of dollars for farmers and landholders at the same time as reducing our carbon emissions.
