In other Federal Budget news
With the 2022-23 Federal Budget a lost opportunity to boost untied Financial Assistance Grants to councils back to 1% of the tax take, it was at least pleasing that road funding programs were maintained.
Enhancing transport connectivity strengthens supply chains and helps support regional communities doing it tough given the cumulative impacts of drought, bushfires, floods and the COVID pandemic.
The Budget allocates $501.7 million over three years to extend the time-limited Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, which supports local councils to maintain and deliver social infrastructure, improve road safety and bolster the resilience of the local road network. The funding will allow councils to further engage local businesses and workforces to deliver priority projects and support economic recovery.
Telecommunications investment - so critical for our regional communities - includes:
- $1.3 billion in funding to enhance regional telecommunications;
- Establishment of a Cell Broadcast National Messaging System (CBNMS) to deliver near real time warning messages to mobile phones, to inform the public of emergency and disaster events; and
- $31.6 million toward Online Safety initiatives and to support the work of the eSafety Commissioner.
Disappointments
LGNSW was disappointed at the lack of new climate change funding initiatives, including adaptation and mitigation measures to support councils and communities.
It was also disappointing to see no new funding for social housing. Councils across NSW have raised social housing shortages as a key contributor to the housing crisis facing so many communities with multiple conference resolutions this year and in previous years. LGNSW advocacy to the NSW and Australian Governments will continue to call for far greater investment for this need.
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