They were among 26 councils and two county shires who gained a share in $2 million, available as one-off grants to rural and regional councils with a population of less than 10,000 people.

The grants assist councils to find smart solutions to local issues. Councils also had the chance to team up with neighboring councils to fund joint projects.

Barwon MP Kevin Humphries said that was what Bourke, Brewarrina and Walgett had chosen to do for their project Harmonisation of Human Resource Management: Engaging, Developing and Utilising Local Workforce Capability and Capacity.

Cobra Shire Council was successful in their application for the Service Level Reviews – Building Capacity and Undertaking the Reviews project.

“The NSW government wants to make sure every community gets their fair share of support and this program is a great way to reach those smaller communities which face different challenges to other parts of NSW,” Mr Humphries said.

“This program isn’t just about solving problems; it’s about improving the lives of ratepayers by delivering the local services that they deserve.”

This round of grants is on top of $2 million in innovation grants awarded to almost 20 councils last year.

“By funding these projects the NSW government can help councils overcome some of the challenges they face in supporting their communities and maintaining quality services,” Deputy Premier John Barilaro said.

NSW Local Government Minister Gabrielle Upton congratulated the successful councils for their commitment to improve local services for ratepayers.

“We want councils to focus on providing improved services and local infrastructure that ratepayers care about.” Ms Upton said.

For a list of recipients, visit: fitforthefuture.nsw.gov.au/content/innovation-fund.