The deadline for applications for the job-creating Rural Economic Development Grants program has been extended so bushfire and drought-ravaged applicants don’t miss out.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said close to 50 rural businesses were successful in the expressions of interest stage of the second round of the grants program but the extended deadline to Friday 24 January meant applicants impacted during drought, fire and other natural disasters could have extra time.
“We have seen producers and rural businesses affected during bushfires and natural disaster over the summer season and beyond, while more than 67% of the state is drought declared,” Mr Furner said.
“Under the first round of grants, $3.3 million was distributed to support projects that will create up to 600 jobs and help 15 rural businesses to expand.
“That’s why our Rural Economic Development Grants are so important. They help existing agricultural businesses to value-add and expand their capacity and create more jobs in rural communities.”
Rural Economic Development Grants provide co-contributions up to $250,000 for food and agricultural businesses to support ‘shovel-ready’ projects that create jobs related to value added primary production and provide significant economic benefits to rural and regional communities.
The RED Grant program is funded for a total of $10 million over three years. The program is administered by the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) on behalf of the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
The Rural Economic Development Grant application deadline has been extended to January 24 and applicants who have already lodged their application now have the opportunity to add more information.
Expressions of interest for round 3 of the RED Grants program will open later in the year.
