The Hon David Littleproud MP
Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management
Deputy Leader of The Nationals
The Hon Michelle Landry MP
Federal Member for Capricornia
The Australian Government is backing jobs growth in Capricornia, with a $9 million grants program now open.
The North Queensland Economic Diversification Grants are part of the government’s commitment to supporting communities affected by the 2019 North Queensland Monsoon Trough and result from extensive consultation with individuals, business owners and local governments over the last two years.
Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said between $10,000 and $500,000 is available for projects that diversify existing industries and start new ones.
“Since the beginning the Australian Government has supported locally-led recovery from this terrible event. In all, we’ve committed more than $3 billion to support recovery – and most importantly, to build resilience,” Minister Littleproud said.
“Diverse, strong local economies help communities thrive and steel them against the economic impact of future challenges, including natural disasters.”
Funding is available in two streams – one for projects related to agriculture and its value chain, and one for non-agricultural related projects. Successful applicants will need to provide a financial or in-kind contribution and show how their project supports a diversified economy that’s flexible and adaptive to shocks.
Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry said the grants meant communities continued to have a say in how they wanted to buffer their communities against future natural disasters and other economic shocks.
“The grants are fairly flexible with how they can be used because we know the best ideas for broadening the region’s economic base will come from people who live and work here,” Ms Landry said.
Examples could include Indigenous tourism, renewable energy options, and a focus on place-based and regional tourism.
The grants will be managed by the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA). Information on how to apply is available on their website:https://www.qrida.qld.gov.au/program/north-queensland-economic-diversification-grants
