- The Crisafulli Government delivers new $2 million Indigenous Cape Communities Economic Development Fund.
- Funding will empower 11 Indigenous councils across Cape York to deliver local projects that enhance their economic sustainability and prosperity.
- Delivers on key government election commitment to support economic development and improve outcomes for communities in the Cape York region.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future after a decade of decline under Labor.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering on a key election commitment, with a new $2 million funding program to back local economic development.
This program will support 11 Indigenous councils across Cape York to deliver job-creating projects, strengthen local economies and drive long-term opportunities for their communities.
Under the former Labor Government, councils were too often left carrying the burden and the bill for failed projects, during their decade of decline.
The Crisafulli Government is changing this, delivering on a commitment to empower councils, working alongside them as equal partners to secure the future of their communities.
Projects delivered by councils will help improve opportunities for businesses, jobs, investment, cultural and community programs or other initiatives that contribute to local economic sustainability and prosperity.
Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the new fund fulfilled a key election commitment to support Cape York's Indigenous communities by investing in local development projects to enhance the region's growth.
"The previous Labor Government treated our local governments like second-class citizens. We are turning this around and delivering on our promise to empower councils," Minister Leahy said.
"We're committed to unlocking economic potential no matter where you live in Queensland, ensuring even our most remote communities have the support to build sustainable local economies, more jobs and a better lifestyle.
"This fresh start is about empowering the councils to deliver projects that reflect their local needs, priorities and aspirations to foster long-term benefits."
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said the funding backed Indigenous councils and their elected local council leaders to drive projects which create real economic opportunity for their communities.
"The Crisafulli Government is delivering practical outcomes for our Indigenous communities across Queensland through locally driven projects which turn the dial on Closing The Gap," Minister Simpson said.
"This funding can be used to build workforce capacity through skills development, upgrade infrastructure to support local businesses, or facilitate community initiatives to enhance liveability."
Member for Cook David Kempton said this investment would make real difference on the ground, supporting projects that reflect the priorities of our Indigenous communities.
"This is about giving our councils the certainty and support they need to deliver important projects and keep momentum moving forward," Mr Kempton said.
