Labor is calling on the NSW Government to double funding for the Community Building Partnership to support community groups and stimulate economic activity.
 
The Community Building Partnership was established in 2009 by the then NSW Labor Government. It provides funding for community groups and local councils to upgrade their infrastructure.
 
Since 2009, the Community Building Partnership has provided more than $334 million for around 15,000 projects across NSW.
 
More than $133 million worth of applications have been received for the program this year, however only $28 million of funding is available.
 
In March 2020, Labor MP Sophie Cotsis asked the Premier and Treasurer to boost funding for the Community Building Partnership to stimulate the economy and support community groups whose normal fundraising activities have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. A copy of Ms Cotsis’ letter is available here.
 
“The NSW Government should double funding for the Community Building Partnership in light of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Labor Shadow Minister for Better Public Services Sophie Cotsis said.
 
“This is a proven program which could provide a much-needed injection of funds for local community groups during this difficult time”.
 
Labor Shadow Minister for Seniors and Cost of Living Jo Haylen noted the high demand for funding in her community.
 
“Many sporting groups and community organisations have seen a huge fall in revenue due to COVID-19,” Ms Haylen said.
 
“Boosting funding through the Community Building Partnership would provide a much needed boost for community groups during this difficult time”.
 
Labor State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin noted community projects would create jobs for tradespeople and local businesses.
 
“Our local economy needs targeted support through projects that will create jobs in our community,” Ms Saffin said.
 
“The North Coast of NSW has been particularly hard-hit, with many people losing jobs in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
 
“Data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows the North Coast has lost the most jobs of any regional area in NSW, with 6.2 percent of payroll jobs lost since this crisis began.
 
“The NSW Government should increase funding for this year’s Community Building Partnership to support community groups and create opportunities for tradespeople and local small businesses.”