ALGA has partnered with the Institute of Public Works Engineers Australasia (IPWEA) to call for the Federal Government to make the successful Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program permanent, with $500 million per year ongoing and funding indexed annually.
On behalf of Australia’s 537 councils, ALGA highlighted the importance of investing in local governments to boost Australia’s productivity to generate jobs and economic growth for the nation.
ALGA President Councillor Linda Scott said the LRCI program supported councils across the nation to build and revitalise local playgrounds, community centres, libraries, sporting grounds and bike paths.
“The direct delivery of funding to councils, without the need for time-consuming grant applications, has ensured the quick and effective delivery of local projects,” said Cr Scott, who added that making the LRCI permanent would be an investment in Australia’s future productivity.
IPWEA President Myles Lind said: “IPWEA supports ALGA’s call to make the LRCI program permanent. This program offers councils the opportunity to plan for the renewal of infrastructure assets and act before assets fail, renewing and revitalising infrastructure, so they can continue to serve our communities.”
Read more: https://alga.com.au/permanent-funding-needed-to-future-proof-community-infrastructure/