Photo by Troy Pearson

Parliamentary Secretary for Western NSW Rick Colless today announced $410,000 has been granted to Orange Electorate to significantly improve as part of the fifth round of funding under the NSW Government’s Resources for Regions program.

Mr Colless said the funding will help to ensure the mining-related community of Orange Electorate receives the infrastructure it deserves.

“This much-needed funding will really improve road safety along this key arterial road for the local community, making it an even better place to live and work,” Mr Colless said.

“185 vehicles on average use this road each day – it’s a connecting road to the site of one of the region’s largest employers - Newcrest/Cadia Valley Mine.

“These works will improve the livability of residents in the Orange region by enhancing vital infrastructure through widening shoulders on a 6.5 kilometre stretch of narrow road and installing of guard rail sections.

“It will also create new jobs in Orange Electorate as work gets underway on the project.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said the project is one of nine that will be funded in the fifth round of the Resources for Regions program.

“I’m thrilled to make this announcement for Orange Electorate today - this is a fantastic program that delivers great outcomes for our regional mining-related communities,” Mr Barilaro said.

“Mining contributes greatly to the NSW economy, supporting more than 100,000 jobs right across the state, but the benefits can place extra pressure on community resources, including wear and tear on community facilities and roads.

“It is only fitting that the mining-related communities that contribute so much to the state receive their fair share of the spoils - that’s why the NSW Government continues to reinvest in this great program.”

More than $268 million has now been committed to 54 successful projects since the program was established under the Restart NSW fund in 2012.

The NSW Government has reserved an additional $50 million for the Resources for Regions program and will take new applications from 12 June.