By The Federal Government has given $10 million to three water projects in Central West New South Wales, as part of a $100 million package to finance Regional Recovery Partnerships in ten Australian areas over the next two years.
Michael McCormack, Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, said the projects were part of the government’s commitment to creating employment and diversifying the economy.
“This investment will deliver Stage 2 of the Parkes Water Security project and Part 1 of Stage 2 of the Central West Industrial Park in Forbes,” the Deputy Prime Minister stated.
“Works to be financed include the building of important drainage works for the Central West Industrial Park, as well as two new pump stations that are important components of the Parkes Water Security project.
“The $4 million Central West Industrial Park and $5 million Parkes Water Security projects contribute to the broader regional development objectives of bringing together planning and investment to drive jobs and economic activity through the Parkes Special Activation Precinct. The projects help deliver infrastructure that supports businesses to establish, expand and diversify.”
Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton, asserted the projects will support regional development and tourism, with flow-on effects for the community.
“The town of Lake Cargelligo will be transformed with a $1 million upgrade for the village centre, with new infrastructure and facilities to service tourists and residents,” Mr Coulton stated.
“These projects are providing vital infrastructure for both the agricultural industry and community alike, helping improve living standards and the attractiveness of the region as a place to live, work and visit.
“Many of our regions are still recovering from drought and the pandemic, which is why it is important now more than ever that all levels of government work together to rapidly deliver jobs, generate economic recovery and drive tourism-related opportunities.”
Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Hon Nola Marino MP, pointed out she approved the projects as they were excellent examples of investment in the region to further support local business to recover and diversify.
Mayor of Parkes Shire, Cr Ken Keith OAM, believes these projects are heping the region look to the future.
“These valuable water projects will future proof the Parkes township water supply and support anticipated residential growth as a result of the thousands of new jobs created by developments such as Inland Rail, mining and the Parkes Special Activation Precinct,” Mr Keith stated.
The Regional Recovery Partnership programs are focused on supporting economic growth in the ten areas (particularly after COVID-19), economic diversification, and job creation.
