Local councils, companies, not-for-profits and research organisations in Forde can now apply for up to $5 million in funding to support smart tech projects for their local communities.
The Coalition Government’s $50 million Smart Cities and Suburbs Program has been opened by Assistant Minister for Cities and Digital Transformation Angus Taylor.
Mr Taylor said he was delighted to launch the new program to support the rollout of technology and data solutions for local communities.
“This is not just for metropolitan areas, good ideas come from everywhere and we welcome applications from across Australia.”
Federal Member for Forde Bert van Manen MP said the Coalition Government was co-investing in projects that applied smart technology, data-driven decision making and people-focused design.
“I encourage any interested applicants in Forde to put forward technology proposals that solve some of our community problems here locally, and have the potential to be scaled up and delivered nationwide,” Mr van Manen said.
A wide range of projects are expected to be developed such as app-based detection of infrastructure wear and tear, traffic sensors, smart street lighting, or computer generated programs that support local services.
Eligible organisations— local governments, private companies, not for profits and research organisations — can apply for grants of between $100,000 and $5 million to fund up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs.
Applications are open from March 17 until June 30, 2017.
The Smart Cities and Suburbs Program is supported by the Future Ready incubation series for councils that are looking to build smart cities know-how.
For more information and to download a copy of the Smart Cities and Suburbs Program guidelines, visit business.gov.au.
