DISCUSSIONS will commence with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council about key projects that can be supported by the Federal Government's $1.8 billion boost to stimulate COVID-19 recovery in regional areas.
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The funding aims to enable local councils to deliver priority projects with a focus on upgrades and maintenance to local roads and community infrastructure.
Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said he will meet with mayor Peta Pinson to discuss potential projects.
"This investment will support local jobs and businesses and boost local economies struggling under the effects of COVID-19," Dr Gillespie said.
The Federal funding package includes a new $500 million Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program; and bringing forward $1.3 billion of the 2020-21 Financial Assistance Grant payment.
Dr Gillespie said accelerating local infrastructure projects across the Hastings and Camden Haven region was important for supporting jobs and the local economy.
"Every single job we support makes a huge difference in our local community as we rebuild the economy post coronavirus," Dr Gillespie said.
"Not only will this package support jobs, construction businesses and the economy across Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Camden Haven regions, it will improve our local roads and provide for new and upgraded amenities to help communities stay connected."
Local road projects to be delivered under the program include constructing or improving bridges and tunnels, street lighting, and heavy vehicle facilities such as rest areas.
A broad range of community infrastructure projects will be eligible including new or upgraded bicycle and walking paths, community facilities, and picnic shelters and barbecue facilities at parks.
Council has already set the wheels in motion with the establishment of a COVID-19 Recovery Working Group.
The working group, consisting of a cross-section of community leaders, will put recommendations to council for action focusing on economic, business, education, social, cultural and environmental priorities as key areas for recovery and growth.
Emerging discussion themes include how bringing forward capital works projects may activate the economy, what role the education sector might play in upskilling and retraining and how retail and hospitality have adapted.
Part of that planning will also be identifying the most vulnerable residents in the region and connecting them with the right people and resources to ensure it is a whole of community approach to recovery.
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