Funding local priorities

The Albanese Government is supporting local communities across Australia by providing $750 million through Phase 4 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

The Government is allocating $500 million in accordance with advice to councils prior to the election in May 2022. Councils across Australia will be able to spend this funding on priority local road and community infrastructure projects.

An additional $250 million funded in the October budget will be targeted to supporting road projects in rural, regional and outer urban areas. This delivers on an election commitment.

The Government is committed to a robust methodology underpinning the determination of eligible councils for this $250 million in funding. Detail about these allocations will be announced shortly.

Councils will be able to access their Phase 4 funding allocations from July, with projects to be delivered by June 2025.

The LRCI program supports all Australian councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects in their region, creating jobs and long-lasting benefits for communities.

Guidelines and grant agreements will be finalised by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts over the coming months.

Individual council allocations under the first $500 million are available on the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program website.

Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“The additional $250 million in this phase will prioritise road upgrades in regional, rural and outer urban areas, which we know is a vital concern for many councils across the country – particularly following events like floods and natural disasters.

“We have listened and we are acting to prioritise regional and rural roads.

“This is yet another demonstration of our commitment to standing stand side-by-side with councils to support them in their vital role in delivering critical services for their communities.”

Quotes attributable to Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister Kristy McBain:

“The LRCI program delivers projects such as upgrades to roads, community halls, parks and sports facilities, bike paths and playgrounds.

“We know what a difference good local roads and community facilities can make, particularly in regional and rural communities, which is why we’ve increased both the funding amount and the delivery window for Phase 4.

“This will give councils the time they need to plan for larger or more complex projects that may be a higher priority and have a bigger impact in their community.”