Grants are now open for regional organisations to undertake infrastructure projects that will lead to economic growth, employment opportunities and contribute towards building a prosperous Northern Territory.

The Northern Territory Government will distribute $10 million in grants to local government, community and Indigenous organisations under round three of the Regional Economic Infrastructure Fund (REIF).

This is an exciting opportunity for local government and community organisations to address infrastructure needs in their communities.

The program builds on the success of $20 million of investment which has already funded more than 40 projects delivered by local government and Indigenous organisations across regional and remote Northern Territory.

Projects funded under this initiative typically include road infrastructure upgrades or feasibility studies which will lead to economic and social benefits for regional Territorians such as the Murganella Road project in West Arnhem. This project employed a crew of 10 local indigenous workers as part of the extensive road maintenance for a 100km stretch of Murganella Road serving the towns of Maningrida and Gunbalanya.

The $10 million available under round three will give local communities the chance to contribute to the economic viability of regional and remote areas, helping to build a more prosperous Territory.

Angkerle Aboriginal Corporation, General Manager, Ray Prunty said that a grant of $103,085 awarded under the Regional Economic Infrastructure Fund in 2015, helped the small Aboriginal organisation to  maintain and operate a tourist enterprise at Standley Chasm, attracting more customers and improving safety of patrons by upgrading 1.2km of walking track.

The Standley Chasm walkway upgrade at Alice Springs was jointly funded under the Australian Government's Tourism Demand-Driver Infrastructure program, administered by Tourism NT.

Projects such as Standley Chasm walkway upgrade, which are funded by multiple funding partners, offer a strong investment for the NT Government, leveraging the highest degree of support in order to help deliver a successful project.

Where there are opportunities for partnerships to be developed in the funding or delivery of REIF projects, these are encouraged. This includes partnerships between local government and Indigenous or community organisations.

Applications close 7 September.

Criteria and application forms are available within the program guidelines provided at transport.nt.gov.au or call 8924 7118.

Media contact: Simone Phasey 8924 7028