New investment from the Federal Government is hitting the ground in communities across the region, as part of a $150,000 funding package for towns in the New England Electorate.

Federal Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said six new projects in the electorate worth $51,742 have been approved so far under Round 5 of the Australian Government’s Stronger Communities Programme (SCP).

Recent grant approvals include:

• Barraba Art and Craft Guild: $14,500 - Structural repairs to hall.
• Deepwater Tennis Club: $7,987 - Upgrade of kitchen facilities.
• Aberdeen Pre School: $8,394 - Resurface pre-school bike track.
• Tenterfield Showground Land Manager: $9,900 – Repair and rebuild stable block.
• Tamworth Regional Craft Centre: $4,041 – Build two disabled carpark spaces, paved path and lighting to amenities facilities.
• Tenterfield and District Community FM Radio Association: $6,920 – Preparation and installation of upgraded aerials and masts.

“This investment in vital local infrastructure will not only provide an added economic boost for our towns in drought - drawing on local labour and local suppliers in many instances - these projects will also help build the facilities our towns need and create vibrant, viable communities for the future,” Mr Joyce said.

Under the $22.65 million Round 5 of the SCP, each electorate has received $150,000 to allocate towards successful projects, with a maximum of 20 projects to be funded per electorate. Grants values range from $2,500 to $20,000.

Funding of up to $90.0 million was available under the previous four rounds of the SCP in the 2015-2016, 2016-2017, 2017-18, and 2018-19 financial years.