A high-priority drought relief project is progressing on Kangaroo Island, with funding approved to flow under the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Programme (DCP) Extension.
Minister for Drought David Littleproud said he was pleased to see this local infrastructure project moving forward.
“Thanks to the Australian Government’s contribution, the Kangaroo Island Council will receive $1 million in funding that will support the roll out of the Kangaroo Island Township Improvements project,” Minister Littleproud said.
“This project will provide long lasting benefits for the Kangaroo Island community which has been significantly impacted by drought.
Minister Ruston said the DCP Extension projects deliver an immediate cash injection to help keep locals employed, businesses open, and to keep money flowing through drought-affected regional economies.
“This project will deliver vital upgrades to community facilities and spaces within the island’s four townships of Penneshaw, Kingscote, Pandana and American River,” Minister Ruston said.
“The Government is proud to be standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our regional and rural communities who are doing it tough through drought and will be here to support them through dedicated initiatives such as the DCP Extension,” Minister Littleproud said.
“Drought doesn't just hurt farmers; it hurts small businesses and the wider community as well, but with DCP Extension funding we can keep money flowing through affected areas.
Minister Littleproud said now more than ever, the Government is proud to support regional Australia during the added challenge of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.
“Given the challenges of COVID-19, project events may not be able to proceed in the near future,” he said.
“Nevertheless, communities should rest assured the Government continues to have their back, with an economic support package of nearly $260 billion in assistance announced to date.
“This includes the recently announced $1.8 billion package to assist local government in the delivery of priority projects with a focus on roads, community infrastructure upgrades and maintenance,” Minister Littleproud said.
The DCP Extension has funded over 400 projects, such as the construction of local tourism assets and amenities blocks, delivery of a potable water supply, community resilience events and employing local drought support officers.
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