$15 million grants program improving NQ connectivity and energy supply

8 February 2021

• Grants of up to $1 million each for projects that provide more reliable internet, phone and electricity to communities hardest hit by the 2019 North Queensland Monsoon Trough
• Projects will create jobs, support local businesses, and help communities prepare for future natural disasters
• The Australian Government continues to stand by North Queensland, with $60 million in measures supporting its recovery and prosperity

A $60 million Australian Government grants program aimed at giving communities in North Queensland more affordable and reliable internet, phone and electricity opens today. 

The Minister for Emergency Management, David Littleproud said the North Queensland Telecommunications and Energy Improvement Grants are for projects in the 14 Local Government Areas hardest hit by the 2019 Monsoon Trough.

“People told us that reliable and resilient infrastructure is critical to the region, both to assist its ongoing recovery from this devastating event and to better withstand future natural disasters,” Minister Littleproud said.

“Between $10,000 and $1 million is available per grant, with applicants needing to make a financial or in-kind contribution. There are two streams – telecommunications and energy.

“We’re looking to fund projects that upgrade existing technologies or trial and adapt new technologies to provide essential telecommunications and energy services. 

“The projects need to demonstrate how they’ll create jobs, help local businesses and improve both the reliability and affordability of services.

“In addition to providing immediate benefits, the projects must demonstrate how they can assist the region to minimise the impacts of a natural disaster.

“For example, reliable WIFI coverage makes possible the use of remote access flood gauges. 

“This sort of information is essential for graziers to know when and where to move stock, and for councils to plan road closures and move equipment.” 

The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) will administer the grants under a partnership agreement between the Australian and Queensland Governments.  Further information and grant guidelines are available on the QRIDA website.

The $15 million North Queensland Telecommunications and Energy Improvement Grants are one of five Australian Government measures totalling $58 million that support the implementation of the region’s long-term recovery strategy, developed by the National Drought and North Queensland Flood Response and Recovery Agency following extensive community consultation.

For more information on the long-term flood recovery strategy and the grant opportunities, visit: https://www.droughtandflood.gov.au/flood-recovery

This media statement was issued by Minister for Emergency Management David Littleproud