Media Releases

John Barilaro – Deputy Premier
Minister for Regional NSW
Gabrielle Upton -Minister for Local Government

Thursday, 5 July 2018

A funding package of $20 million has been secured for the Far West following the formal establishment of two new joint organisations to improve the delivery of key infrastructure and services in the region, Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said today.

Mr Barilaro congratulated Far West councils for realising the many benefits of joint organisations and voluntarily joining two new regional bodies. He said the Far North West Joint Organisation (Bourke, Cobar, Walgett) and the Far South West Joint Organisation (Balranald, Broken Hill, Central Darling, Wentworth) have now been formally proclaimed.

“This is a landmark day for the Far West with the proclamation of two new regional bodies to improve collaboration between State and local governments and help address the unique challenges faced by the region,” Mr Barilaro said.

“The two new regional bodies will give Far West councils and communities a greater say in the delivery of key infrastructure and services.

“In May I announced a $20 million funding package for Far West councils to help establish two joint organisations and fund air services, better roads, tourism and cultural projects in the region.

“I am pleased to confirm this funding with the proclamation of the Far North West and Far South West joint organisations. I congratulate Far West councils on their commitment to working together and with the NSW Government to the benefit of their communities.”

Minister for Local Government Gabrielle Upton said the proclamation expands the State’s joint organisation network to 13 new regional bodies comprising 80 councils.

“In April 11 joint organisations were proclaimed with 74 councils as members to strengthen collaboration between State and local governments,” Ms Upton said.

“I am delighted that an additional two joint organisations have now been proclaimed in the Far West comprising seven councils.

“The Far West joint organisations will be a key mechanism through which the NSW Government delivers funding and programs in the region.”

Member for Barwon Kevin Humphries welcomed confirmation of the $20 million funding package which is critical to helping Far West councils deliver for the most remote parts of NSW.

“The Far West joint organisations will see our councils, State agencies and other key stakeholders working together to plan and prioritise important regional projects that cross traditional council boundaries and would be difficult for individual councils to get done on their own,” Mr Humphries said.

“The new joint organisations can now start making decisions that make life better for local families, businesses and communities across the region.

“I strongly encourage Brewarrina Shire Council to act quickly and join a joint organisation. It is not too late for the council to ensure its community also benefits from the new regional bodies as they start to make key decisions and progress important regional initiatives.”

Member for Murray Austin Evans said the funding commitment and proclamation of joint organisations showed the NSW Government’s commitment to strong and effective local government in the Far West.

“The NSW Government is doing everything possible to make regional NSW a location of choice,” Mr Evans said.

“The formation of two new joint organisations will go a long way in helping to strengthen delivery of important projects that improve the lifestyle and amenity of local communities across the region.

“I would like to thank the Deputy Premier and the Minister for Local Government for their efforts in supporting Far West councils to deliver for their communities and help overcome the challenges posed by the tyranny of distance and remoteness.”

MEDIA: James Jooste | 0429 978 036