$100 million Resources Community Infrastructure Fund to help secure jobs in the region

Councils and not-for-profit organisations can apply for a share of the ‘bucket of money’ to fund projects that will help secure future jobs in the region.

Not-for-profit organisations and regional councils can now apply for a share of a $100 million fund to invest in projects that will help secure future jobs.

Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert said the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund would be rolled out in two phases.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert announces $100 million Resource Community Infrastructure Fund. Picture: Lillian Watkins

“It's not something airy fairy to apply for, it's about building the capacity for our future,” she said.

The money will be allocated through committees, which Mrs Gilbert said would be manned by councillors, coal producers and other key players in the district.

“This is a great opportunity (and) I’m excited to report back on what will be rolled across our region,” she said.

Standing in the Resource Centre of Excellence Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said he was excited for the potential projects the money could fund.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson at the Resource Centre of Excellence. Picture: Lillian Watkins

In particular, Cr Williamson said he would like to see Stage Two of the Resource Centre of Excellence realised.

“Stage Two of the Resource Centre of Excellence will be a centre of excellence for rare earth minerals that will give us an opportunity to cement even further our world player stake,” Cr Williamson said.

“We’re talking rare earth minerals that are very, very expensive, like silicone and lithium, that still need research.

“I think it will be a fantastic bucket of money for the expansion of the facility.”