Edward River Council has submitted two major project applications to the NSW Government's Sustainable Communities Program: Economic Development & Infrastructure Round, seeking investment to stimulate local economic activity, strengthen essential services and support long-term workforce participation.
Council's two applications put forward are for the Perrin Park Childcare Centre and for an upgrade of the Saleyards Precinct.
The Perrin Park Childcare Centre proposal seeks $4 million to construct and fit-out a new 110-place early childhood education and care facility delivered in partnership with River Region Early Education. The project aims to address urgent childcare shortages affecting workforce participation, family access and local business growth.
The Deniliquin Saleyards Heavy Vehicle Rest Area and Infrastructure Upgrade, seeking $1.6 million, proposes the removal of ageing and disused cattle sale pens and construction of overnight cattle spelling yards, a heavy vehicle overnight rest area and a 24-hour fuel facility. This upgrade is designed to improve freight efficiency and strengthen economic resilience across agriculture, transport and associated industries.
The Sustainable Communities Program aims to fund infrastructure and enabling works in NSW's most vulnerable southern Basin communities.
Edward River Council is among those most significantly affected by government water buybacks, with the flow-on impacts reducing local agricultural output, shrinking job opportunities and placing increasing pressure on essential community services.
These funding bids represent a critical step in strengthening the region's resilience and securing long-term economic stability.
Mayor Ashley Hall said the strong volume of applications emerging from within the Edward River region reflects a community focused on growth, resilience and long-term opportunity.
"We expect more than $40 million worth of projects to be submitted for this funding round from organisations across the Edward River region. It shows just how proactive and ambitious our community is in putting forward strong, future-focused initiatives," Mayor Hall said.
"Edward River is one of the most significantly impacted regions in the southern NSW Basin, and it's critical this is recognised in this funding round."
Edward River Council Chief Executive Officer Jack Bond said the Sustainable Communities Program is a vital opportunity for investment in regions navigating structural and environmental challenges.
"This program is designed to support communities like ours that have been exposed to long-term pressures and need targeted investment to unlock new economic opportunities," Mr Bond said.
"The projects put forward by Council and our regional partners demonstrate clear pathways for economic activation, improved services and future job creation. We are advocating strongly to ensure the Edward River region receives the substantial support it deserves."
Round 2 of the Sustainable Communities Program includes a total of $70 million for infrastructure that supports industry, unlocks land for development and enables people to continue living and working locally.
Assessment of applications will occur over the coming months, with Council continuing its advocacy to secure investment that strengthens the long-term prosperity of the Edward River region.
