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Boost to local government funding for better local services
The Australian Government has announced its latest round of Financial Assistance Grant payments to councils in Deakin, which will this quarter total $1,527,524.
This is the third instalment of untied funding to allocate according to local priorities that local councils will collect this financial year.
Michael Sukkar, Federal Member for Deakin, said without the additional funding residents could be paying higher council rates for the same or lower levels of service like upgrading roads and footpaths, and providing childcare services and recreational facilities.
“The Financial Assistance Grant programme is a welcome boost to our local councils, which can support community initiatives and assist in establishing essential local infrastructure,” Michael said.
Councils in Deakin will receive the following Financial Assistance Grant programme funding in 2015–16:
| Council | Funding paid this quarter | Total cash payment for 2015–16 |
| Manningham City Council | $391,981 | $1,567,924 |
| Maroondah City Council | $610,956 | $2,443,822 |
| Whitehorse City Council | $524,588 | $2,098,351 |
| $1,527,524 | $6,110,097 |
NB: Some councils jurisdictions cross multiple federal electorates.
Electorates are as per the Roads to Recovery reporting and represent 2013 Electorates.
Minister for Major Projects, Territories and Local Government Paul Fletcher said in 2015–16 the Financial Assistance Grant programme will provide $2.3 billion for local governments nationally.
“This includes $1.1 billion that was paid early to States and Territories on 30 June 2015,” Mr Fletcher said.
“Paying the grant unconditionally allows councils to direct the funds towards local priorities. The early upfront payment meant some of these vital funds could be directed sooner.
“That means these funds may help maintain local roads, introduce or continue environment and education programmes, or support local businesses.”
Further information about the Financial Assistance Grant programme, including payments being made to individual councils, is online at: www.regional.gov.au/local/assistance/ index.aspx.