Grants boost

LOCAL councils have received a welcome injection of cash from the Federal Government in the latest round of Local Government Financial Assistance Grants announced by La Trobe MP Jason Wood last week.
Mr Wood said that the Shire of Yarra Ranges, City of Knox and Cardinia Shire Council would reap some of the benefits from a $76.7 million increase in funding for councils from 2006-07 to 2007-08.
Yarra Ranges’ allocation was increased to $11.1 million, while Knox and Cardinia will receive $7 million and $6.8 million respectively.
“These funds are untied so councils can allocate the funds according to local priorities,” Mr Wood said.
“These grants help councils to provide the high-quality services that local communities need and expect of their local council.”