Community groups right across Eden-Monaro are working furiously towards the upcoming deadline for the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund. Source: Timberbiz
Federal Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain said the fund closed on 28 January 2021 and will provide $250 million of funding to support the social and economic recovery of bushfire-affected communities.
“I have heard from many community groups and individuals that the application process is onerous and difficult to navigate,” she said.
“In order to assist community groups, I wrote to the Australian National University, University of Wollongong and the University of Canberra late last year to see if they could assist with the grant writing process in a voluntary capacity.
“I’m delighted to say that many staff members have offered their support for free.
“As we enter a new year, it’s humbling to know that people are still thinking of our community and how they can help,” Ms McBain said.
Ms McBain has previously been critical of the Federal Government’s handling of the National Bushfire Recovery Agency, which she said hadn’t even consulted on which regions should qualify for millions of dollars in bushfire recovery money.
Yet some of the worst affected regions, such as the Eurobodalla, where nearly 800 homes were destroyed or severely damaged, the Bega Valley (nearly 600 homes), and the Shoalhaven (more than 450 homes), didn’t make the cut.
Snowy Valleys (240 homes destroyed or severely impacted) and Queanbeyan-Palerang (almost 80 homes) were also overlooked.
Community groups seeking support are encouraged to contact Kristy McBain’s office or phone 02 6492 0542 to be put in touch with one of the volunteers.
