I would like to wish everyone in the Parkes electorate a very happy New Year!
I hope the Christmas period was one full of rest, relaxation and opportunities to reconnect with loved ones.
Here’s to 2025 being a great year for all, bringing plenty of joy, good health and prosperity.
Now that we have entered the new year, it is really beginning to sink in that my time as your Federal Member is coming to an end.
While we do not yet know when the Federal Election will be held, preparations are now well and truly underway, and I look forward to supporting Nationals candidate for Parkes Jamie Chaffey with his campaign over the next few months.
In the meantime, there is still plenty to be done, and I do not plan on stopping just yet. Rest assured I will continue to serve the people of the Parkes electorate with the same fire and passion as I started with until the election is called.
Reannounced road funding
Last week the Labor Government announced $40 million in funding to upgrade four intersections on Hargraves Lane and Federation Street in Gilgandra.
This project, which will upgrade the intersections that connect with the Newell, Oxley and Castlereagh highways, is very important and will improve the supply-chain efficiency during harvest and reduce the number of heavy vehicles passing through the Gilgandra CBD, as well as better connect the Newell Highway and the Inland Rail.
I should know, since I announced this project back in 2021.
This is yet another example of the Labor Government trying to claim credit for the Coalition’s worthwhile investments.
It’s not new money – the $32 million contribution from the Australian Government was announced as part of the 2021 Federal Budget under the former Coalition Government.
So instead of getting on with the job and starting work on this vital project, Infrastructure Minister Catherine King has tied up this funding as part of Labor’s lengthy infrastructure review, only to re-announce it now, claiming it as a Labor win.
Funding available for community groups
I’m pleased that Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are now open for Round 9 of the popular Stronger Communities Program.
Community groups and local governing bodies can apply for grants of up to $20,000 for infrastructure projects that deliver social benefits for local communities.
Dozens of local community groups have benefitted from the Stronger Communities Program since it was established by the former Coalition Government.
Some major changes have been made to this round, with greater priority being given to vulnerable groups such as Indigenous Australians, veterans, immigrants and people with disabilities, while broader activities available for funding include environmental and climate focused projects and those that address gender equity and health infrastructure.
I encourage all potential applicants to review the guidelines to ensure your project meets the eligibility criteria.
EOIs must be returned to my office by 5pm AEDT Friday, February 7, 2025.
To download the EOI form and for more information, visit my website: www.markcoulton.com.au/funding-available-to-grow-stronger-communities/
Commentary by Mark Coulton, Federal Member for Parkes
