Bundaberg Region Mayor Jack Dempsey has welcomed State Government support for the Council's community hub project at Gin Gin.
The state today committed $833,870 from the Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program.
This follows a Commonwealth injection of nearly $1.4 million announced in March.
The $2.78 million hub project includes upgrades and an extension to the existing Gin Gin Service Centre and Neighbourhood Centre.
It extends the existing centre to incorporate the Gin Gin library; provides upgraded facilities that increase community and shared space; and consolidates Council operations and community services into a “one stop shop”.
The new hub will support a higher level of interaction between community groups.
A business case estimated 36,370 visitors per year (based on historical attendance figures for both the existing Centre 19,070 and library 17,300).
Mayor Dempsey said the Queensland Government contribution meant the Council's requirement was now 25 per cent of the overall cost.
“The program is all about benefiting the community and this funding means priority infrastructure projects will be delivered faster,” he said.
“It is a great example of the two levels of government working together for the local community.”
In March, divisional councillor Wayne Honor said upgrades to the Hub would improve delivery of programs and workshops that include assistance for job networking; resume and letter writing; computer and Internet access; volunteering opportunities; and community education.
Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe congratulated Council on the successful application.
“I applaud the council and their initiative in recognising the need for this project as well as securing the funding to help deliver,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“This Government has committed to creating employment opportunities and this project will do just that.
“Upgrading or building new infrastructure has an immediate positive impact on the liveability of a town.
“This can have fantastic spin-offs such as creating jobs, retaining and growing a population base and generating business confidence to invest locally.”
Briefed on the project in March, Mr Hinchliffe described the community hub as a “win-win for Gin Gin”.
The $58.56 million 2019-21 Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program is designed to provide funding assistance to support Local Governments to deliver priority infrastructure and essential services that meet the identified needs of their communities.
The Gin Gin hub must be completed by 30 June 2021.
