APPLICATIONS for round six of the Building Better Regions Fund community grants close 10 February.

With grants ranging from $5,000 to $10 million on offer the program’s aim is to fund local events and strategic regional plans as well as new or expanded local events, strategic regional plans, leadership and capability building activities in regional and remote areas.

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The program is part of the Federal Government’s stated commitment to create jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities.

A spokesperson for the NSW State Department of Infrastructure said the fund had supported 1300 projects “ensuring Australia’s regions remain great places to work, live and visit”.

“These investments will create new jobs and economic opportunities while delivering infrastructure upgrades that will underpin regional Australia’s growth and prosperity,” the spokesperson said.

The Coffs Harbour region has received in excess of $20 million from the first five rounds since the program’s inception and $250 million is up for grabs nationally in the current round.

C.ex Coffs International Stadium received $6 million from the Building Better Regions Fund in Round 4.

“Since the upgrade we have secured our first ever NRL premiership game, hosted two BBL fixtures (2020 and 2022) with our partners the Sydney Sixers, an A League fixture in 2021 with the Newcastle Jets, and hosted the majority of the Super W Rugby Series,” said Dan Heather, Group Leader, City Prosperity.

A “massive increase in player provisions, improved spectator comforts and premium hospitality options have been installed using fund money,” Mr Heather said.

“The upgrade helps assist ongoing input into the Coffs Harbour economy… and generate upwards of $30 million for the local economy.”

Grants in the current round are available under two streams: the Infrastructure Projects Stream which involves the construction of new infrastructure or the upgrade or extension of existing infrastructure, and the Community Investments Stream which funds community development activities including new or expanded local events, strategic regional plans, leadership and capability building activities.

Local governments and eligible incorporated not-for-profit organisations can apply for grants to cover 50 percent or more of eligible project costs.

By Paul FOGARTY