The delay in distribution of federal funds from the Growing Regions Grant Program will mean extensions in timeframes to get major projects completed.

In May, the successful grant applicants were announced. Yet as of 28 August, no successful applicants have received their funding.

One of the successful applicants was the Brewarrina Police-Citizens’ Youth Club (PCYC) which was promised $10 million to build a new sports centre and youth hub. 

Although the guidelines originally required the recipients to complete the projects by June 2025, Brewarrina Council General Manager David Kirby says the deadline for the finalisation of the Brewarrina PCYC has been extended to June 2026. 

The facility will include a community gymnasium, basketball and netball court, boxing facilities and general community space.

Brewarrina General Manager David Kirby

Mr Kirby said although it would be nice to have the funding by now, Infrastructure Australia was consistently keeping them in the loop on any developments. 

“We haven’t had any trouble on our end because they have been in constant contact with us the whole time,” he said. 

Mr Kirby said they have started making preliminary designs for the Brewarrina PCYC and will take further steps once the funding is secured. 

Infrastructure Australia has told him that the deed would be finalised within the coming weeks. 

Federal Member Mark Coulton says the delay of the funding distribution will impact the completion date of the projects. “

The Labor Government promised programs to support the regions, but after more than two years there is nothing to show for it,” Mr Coulton said. 

“There is no excuse for these ongoing delays given the Government’s program guidelines required regional organisations to commence projects no later than 15 May 2024.” 

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton pictured with Gunida Gunyah Aboriginal Corporation CEO Jane Bender. Photo credit: Marck Coulton MP

Other western NSW recipients of the Growing Regions Program included the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre, the Wiradjuri Cultural Tourism Centre, the Gunida Gunyah Community Cultural Hub and the Narrabri Shire Tourism and Cultural Precinct.