THE state government have continued their charm offensive, allocating an additional $100 million for programs and infrastructure targeted at youth and the wider community.
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At least half of that funding will be going towards projects for people between the ages of 12 to 24, with the rest being set aside for works including street beatification and local events.
Upper Hunter MP, Michael Johnsen, announced that he was excited by the news given what it has accomplished already.
"The Stronger Country Communities Fund (SCCF) has already delivered much needed infrastructure for our Upper Hunter electorate and confirmation that additional funding is available for youth and community projects is great news," he said.
"Hundreds of projects are being delivered and worked on right across regional NSW, including locally where rounds one and two of the fund have funded millions of dollars' worth of local projects, including the Muswellbrook Aquatic Centre water and indoor activity park."
Mr Johnsen stated he was hoping to capitalise on the fund as much as possible, and would help local councils and other eligible organisations to ready their applications for round three.
Applications will open from July 1, and those that are ticked off will be announced from January onwards.
First rolled out in 2017, Mr Johnsen revealed SCCF has provided funding to more than 1000 projects across 93 council districts, and he is keen to see more of a contribution in this region.
"These projects make a real difference to our local communities, such as sporting field lights that allow night-time play, and community hall upgrades," he said.
"I can't wait to see the delivery of our electorate's share of the $50 million in youth infrastructure and programs.""
The local MP is urging young people and families living in the electorate to think about the schemes they would like to see funded and share those ideas with the community and suitable organisations.
Examples of youth infrastructure and programs that could receive funding include job skills training, youth festivals, youth centre upgrades, social inclusion and support groups, recording studio equipment, art studio upgrades and drama performance spaces.