WA: $6.5 million in grants up for grabs

Authorities have less than a month to apply for $6.5 million in State Government funding to improve facilities for recreational boating in WA.

Baird urged local governments, State Government departments and statutory authorities to submit their applications as soon as possible.

“People with an idea for a new public facility or thoughts on improvements to an existing one should contact their local government as soon as possible to discuss their proposal," Baird said.

Eligible authorities (but not individuals) may apply for grants of up to 75 per cent of the estimated cost of a project.

The maximum amount for an individual grant has significantly increased due to an additional $20 million from Royalties for Regions being shared over four rounds of the RBFS. Funding up to $750,000 is available for projects in the Perth metropolitan area and up to $2.25 million is available for regional projects.

RBFS grants are for the construction or upgrade of public boat launching ramps, jetties, moorings, channels and breakwaters directly related to a recreational boating facility. Land-based facilities such as trailer parking areas, toilets, fish cleaning tables and boating signage may also be eligible. Authorities are also encouraged to apply for grants to use in planning infrastructure provision.

Since 1999, the RBFS has seen more than $20 million allocated to 282 projects throughout WA.

Application forms and further information are available at www.transport.wa.gov.au/rbfs or by contacting DoT on (08) 9216 8917.

Applications close on February 7, 2012.