Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully said the Port Kembla community was growing increasingly frustrated that the Government had not yet announced the opening of applications for access to the PKCIF.

“The PKCIF was set up as a 99 year funding program and there is an expectation within the local community that the funding would be available in a timely manner yet the fund has not been open to new applications since 1 September 2020 – more than 620 days ago.

“The funding helps the Port Kembla community contribute to jobs support and expansion and business opportunities.

“No one is helped by the funds sitting idle in a government bank account.

“The funding needs to flow from Martin Place to Wentworth Street now”, he said.

Mr Scully said that he had raised the continued delay in progressing the next round on multiple occasions with the Deputy Premier who is responsible for administering the program.

“I again call on the Government to get a move on; the Port Kembla community has waited patiently for enough time.

“I suggest that Government should also prioritise projects that will use local content and employment so every dollar invested stays within the local community supporting local businesses and workers.

Mr Scully said the PKCIF fifth round funding could complement the opening of applications under the Community Building Partnership (CBP) program.

The Port Kembla Community Investment Fund has helped 57 projects worth more than $8 million get off the ground over the last four years.