A children’s nature-based play area, and upgrades to the Christmas Island (CI) outdoor cinema and sporting facilities are among the projects to be awarded funding to implement projects aligned to actions in the Our Christmas Island 2030 Strategic Plan.
The Australian Government provided $500,000 to the Indian Ocean Territories Regional Development Organisation (IOT RDO) in the 2019-20 Federal Budget, including $300,000 for community infrastructure projects on CI.
The Strategic Plan was developed by the community, through the IOT RDO, to support economic sustainability and liveability on CI, capturing the community’s views and aspirations, and reflecting its goals for the future. Community organisations were invited to submit applications for funding of projects, aligned to the Strategic Plan, and of significant benefit to the CI community, to be completed by 30 June 2021.
It is my pleasure to announce some of the grant recipients at the Community Reception at the Tea Garden during my first visit to CI. The associated projects are all aligned with the Strategic Plan in developing community infrastructure on CI for sport, recreation, and wellbeing.
The CI Cinema Club will receive $68,700 to upgrade the screen and beautification works at the outdoor cinema. Upgrading the much-loved community facility was identified as a priority in the Strategic Plan.
A nature-based play space at the Tea Gardens will enhance the wellbeing of children in the CI community with $90,000 provided to Arts and Culture CI to develop it.
Upgrades to facilities at the sports ground, including expansion of storage areas, extension of the veranda, and an upgrade of the children’s playground, will be undertaken by the CI Cricket and Sporting Club with a $66,467 grant.
All three community organisations made a financial and/or in-kind contribution to the cost of their projects.
A $2,000 grant has also been provided to the CI Islamic Council to install a water drinking fountain at the Madrasah.
Congratulations to all community members who have contributed to these projects.
The Hon Nola Marino, Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Territories
