Brendan O’Connor welcomes the move of RDAF project in Melton Shire to next stage of assessment

Thursday, 12 January 2012

Brendan O’Connor, Federal Member for Gorton, has welcomed news that the Melton Library and Learning Hub has been selected to proceed to full application for the $200 million Round Two of the Regional Development Australia Fund (RDAF).

The Melton Library and Learning Hub (ML&LH) is supported by Melton Shire Council.

Mr O’Connor said the announcement provides an opportunity to further demonstrate how the project will meet the needs of the region.

“The quality of projects received in the Western region was very high, making it a difficult choice. The chosen projects all took into the account the priorities of our Regional Plan and have the capacity to address the needs of the region,” Mr O’Connor said.

“Having lobbied and expressed my formal support for the ML&LH in the past, I am particularly delighted that this project has been selected to proceed to the full application stage.

“These projects have a strong level of community support and will have a positive long-term impact on our region and neighbouring regions and are ready to proceed.”

The list of projects selected across the RDA network that are proceeding to full application are available at http://www.regional.gov.au/regional/programs/rdaf.aspx

The closing date for full applications is February 15, 2012.  The Department will assess all applications to ensure compliance with the Guidelines.

Eligible applications will then be assessed by an Independent Advisory Panel and funded projects will be announced mid-year.

The RDAF is worth almost $1 billion over five years and is designed to boost economic and community development. 

It is part of the Australian Government’s commitment to regional Australia. More information on RDAF can be found at www.regional.gov.au