State of Western Australia Providing Funds to Help Transform Former Timber Towns

Australia’s state of Western Australia (WA) is working to help transform former timber towns into thriving places to live and visit through the recently created Community Small Grants Fund (CSGF). According to a recent press release, the CSGF forms part of the $80 million (AUD) Native Forestry Transition Plan and is another way the WA government is continuing to support the region as native logging comes to an end.

27 recipients have been announced in the first round of grants and will share $2 million (AUD) of funding. Government officials say that the investment will help to support local projects across a range of industries such as tourism, hospitality, sports, arts, entertainment, youth services, health, agriculture, and charitable services. This will include investments in a new luxury glamping experience in Nannup, an adventure high ropes course in Pemberton, and an upgrade to the Manjimuip Speedway Club.

The WA government said a second round of the CSGF will open early next year. Eligible businesses and organizations can apply for grants up to $100,000 for projects which stimulate the economy and increase the region’s livability.