MANAGEMENT

NSW bumps up Resources for Regions program to $75M

MINING communities across regional New South Wales are set to receive a greater share of mining royalties with Resources for Regions Round Eight applications open for projects.

NSW deputy premier John Barilaro (centre) at Peabody's Wambo mine.

NSW deputy premier John Barilaro (centre) at Peabody's Wambo mine.

NSW deputy premier John Barilaro said Round Eight had been boosted to $75 million, which would help deliver even more projects that made a difference to 24 local government areas across regional NSW.

This comes as the National Party seeks to retain the Upper Hunter state seat in the by-election due to be held on May 22. 

"Round Eight of the Resources for Regions fund will build on the success of the previous round, which provided $50 million for 84 projects that helped create new jobs and stimulated local economies through infrastructure and program delivery," Barilaro said.

"We know that the mining industry can put extra pressure on local infrastructure in regional towns and this fund is about giving back to these mining communities that contribute so much to the NSW economy.

"You've heard me say there is more to come and here it is, another $75 million to fund projects and programs that will ensure our mining communities remain strong for generations to come.

"It's absolutely crucial that we continue to support regional mining towns that supply our state with the resources we need and the Resources for Regions program is just another example of the NSW Government's commitment to the future of our regions."

Under Round Eight, 24 councils will be allocated a base amount of $1 million, with a further $51 million weighted to those communities that need it most.

Since its inception in 2012, the Resources for Regions program has delivered 149 projects worth $345 million to the state's mining communities.

NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee said the $75 million of additional funding for the Resources for Regions program was a significant increase on the previous round and would be welcomed by NSW mining communities.

The previous round delivered $50 million for 84 projects across the state, assisting with local infrastructure, the creation of local jobs and building stronger local economies.

"With 149 projects and $345 million delivered since the program's inception in 2012, it's good to see the NSW government will continue to drive this important investment in mining regions," Galilee said.

NSWMC survey data shows its member companies injected $6.2 billion in direct spending into the Hunter region last financial year, contributing about 28% of the Gross Regional Product of the Hunter economy in 2019-20.

The sector also provides about 40,000 direct jobs and supports tens of thousands more in about 7000 mining supplier businesses across the state.

"We will continue to work with the NSW government and mining-related councils to ensure these funds are provided for projects that improve quality of life for mining communities," Galilee said.

 

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