The State Government is backing the Swifts Creek community by providing support to develop and progress innovative projects identified through their Local Development Strategy.
Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence last week announced a $500,000 grant from the Forestry Transition Program for the extension of the ‘Swifts Creek Future’ Local Development Strategy.
The Community Development Fund grant is being provided to the East Gippsland Shire Council to support the Swifts Creek Future project for a further two years.
“This additional funding will further support Swifts Creek’s economic diversification planning and transition to new, sustainable industries,” Minister Spence said.
“I look forward to seeing these priority areas identified through the Local Development Strategy come to life in the future,” Member for Eastern Victoria, Tom McIntosh, said.
The funding will support the exploration of the priority areas for the town identified through the project including:
– Nature-based recreation and tourism
– Education and Skills Centre
– Primary industry production
– Independent living for local ageing residents.
“This additional funding will give the people of Swifts Creek the time and resources they needed to build on the work already underway through the Swifts Creek Future Local Development Strategy. We are committed to ensuring our communities thrive, and this funding will help Swifts Creek build on its strengths,” East Gippsland Shire Council chief executive officer, Fiona Weigall, said.
The grant will be used for the employment of staff to manage the implementation of the Local Development Strategy, communications products and sourcing of additional expert advice.
Swifts Creek is one of 11 Victorian towns and communities receiving support to transition and implement new strategies in their local economy.
