By Staff Writer

Councils across Australia have until 4pm AESDT today to lodge new or revised applications for their share of funding through the Federal Government’s Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program (RLCIP).

The RLCIP was launched last year to provide $300 million for local community infrastructure, including $50 million for large scale strategic projects.

In February, the Rudd Government boosted the program with an additional $500 million as part of its $42 billion economic stimulus package.

The expanded investment will provide further funding for a range of strategic projects, including town halls, community centres, libraries and sport facilities.

Successful applicants will be required to commence work on approved projects within a six month period and spend the funding before September.

The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) president Cr Geoff Lake said community infrastructure projects funded by local government and the Commonwealth would be worth more than $1 billion.

“Such a significant investment in local communities, in addition to the $250 million of funding previously announced by the Government in November, will make a real difference to local communities by supporting local jobs and improving local community infrastructure,” Cr Lake said.

ALGA recently partnered with the Australian Institute of Architects to provide councils with free access to experienced architects for quality design.

“Good design does not need to be thrown out the window when spending money quickly is the priority,” Cr Lake said.

“Smaller rural councils in a number of states have taken advantage of the opportunity to discuss their applications with an architect prior to submission.”