New South Wales Deputy Premier John Barilaro

Multi-Million Dollar Fund For Border Towns

Victor P Taffa

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional New South Wales John Barilaro today announced $20 Million for New South Wales Cross-Border Commissioner’s Infrastructure Fund (CBCIF).

This will make it easier to fund and build vital infrastructure that benefits communities living on our state’s borders.

CBCIF will be used to build infrastructure which has social, economic, environmental or cultural benefits for towns in border areas, and requires co-investment from the neighbouring state.

Deputy Premier Barilaro said border communities should not miss out on building or improving critical infrastructure because of an invisible line.

“Residents and businesses in cross-border communities are often faced with issues brought about by differences in state and territory rules, regulations and policies, and that’s why we led the way by establishing the New South Wales Cross-Border Commissioner in 2012.” Deputy Premier Barilaro said.

“Under this new fund, the Commissioner will work with communities in New South Wales and neighbouring states through established cross-border agreements to identify priority projects, and secure co-investment.”

“Projects for consideration may include improving electricity supply, developing telecommunications, accessing water supply or providing social and sporting infrastructure, all with the intention to grow and support our border regions.”

“I’m confident that this fund will continue the good work already underway in the cross-border regions, as we work towards the further reduction in regulatory duplication, the recognition of qualifications across both states and easing planning and development processes.” Deputy Premier Barilaro said.

Projects must be located in local government areas of New South Wales and neighbouring jurisdictions which are adjacent to a New South Wales border. Applications will be invited in the coming months.