NEW PROJECT MAKING SMYTHESDALE EVEN BETTER

The Allan Labor Government is building on its support for rural and regional Victoria with exciting new
projects set to boost local economies, build even stronger communities, and give people even more
reasons to stop and visit.

$5.5 million in grants will support projects across the Grampians region through the Labor Government’s
$25 million Council Support Package.

The package has successfully helped shovel-ready projects get off the ground in our biggest regional cities
and surrounding towns. It funds projects that are designed to increase tourism, improve local
infrastructure, strengthen businesses, and empower volunteers, with grants ranging from $20,000 to $5
million depending on size and scope.

In the growing community of Smythesdale, residents and tourists will benefit from $100,000 toward the
Smythesdale Public Gardens Upgrade Project. This project will deliver upgrade works including drainage,
street furniture and signage to increase visitation.

The Council Support Package has backed 27 projects across rural and regional Victoria, and complements
the Tiny Towns Fund, which is backing projects that really matter to local communities in smaller towns
of up to 5,000 people.

The Tiny Towns Fund first round projects will be announced soon, with both programs delivered through
Regional Development Victoria. These initiatives are part of the Labor Government’s record $45 billion
investment in rural and regional Victoria since 2014, making our regions even better places to live, work
and visit.

For more information visit rdv.vic.gov.au/councilsupportpackage.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney:

“We’re proud to support so many exciting projects across rural and regional Victoria that will lead to
better public spaces, more economic activity and better outcomes for visitors and locals.”

“These projects are shovel-ready meaning that we’re ready to support better outcomes that benefit our
regions sooner.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett:

"Our investment in rural and regional Victoria is making a real difference, with unemployment at a record
low of 3.8 per cent, and tourism booming. Projects like this one in Smythesdale will further boost our
region’s economy and support communities to thrive.”