Local councils and state and territory governments are encouraged to apply for funding available under Round 5 of the Bridges Renewal Program (BRP) and Round 7 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program (HVSPP).

Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the programs presented an opportunity to deliver better and safer bridges and freight roads in Barker.

“These two funding rounds have a combined $300 million available to help upgrade and replace damaged or deteriorating bridges and improve key heavy vehicle infrastructure,” Pasin said.

“Under these programs, proponents can apply for funding of up to 50 per cent of project costs for up to five projects to a limit of $2 million per project for councils and $2.5 million per project for state and territory governments.

“This allows communities to prioritise and fast-track their highest priority infrastructure projects, providing a much-needed boost to local jobs and the economy.

“Every single job that we can support in Barker means more money flowing across our communities at a time it is needed most.”

“From heavy vehicle rest areas along the Sturt Highway to important intersections like that at the Mount Gambier Sale yards or along Riddoch Highway, millions of dollars have been invested in Barker’s heavy vehicle routes since the program started.”

“Likewise, the Bridges Renewal Program has seen bridges across Barker upgraded or replaced, making our road network safer and more productive,” Mr Pasin said.

“I encourage local councils and the State Government to apply for funding under these programs by the 29 May 2020 closing date so I can then support these applications and ensure Barker’s road infrastructure gets the funding needed.

For more information visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/bridges and www.infrastructure.gov.au/hvspp