Election Funding Push Targets Grassroots Votes

Federal MPs are gearing up to spend over $70 million on hyper-local grant programs ahead of the upcoming election, aiming to strengthen support in their constituencies through targeted funding.

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Pick & Scroll News
January 21, 2025

Federal MPs are gearing up to spend over $70 million on hyper-local grant programs ahead of the upcoming election, aiming to strengthen support in their constituencies through targeted funding.


Programs like the $10 million volunteer initiative, $28.4 million youth empowerment fund, and $8.5 million for sports group travel are part of this pre-election splurge. These grants, ranging from $500 to $1 million, undergo independent value-for-money assessments but have faced criticism for benefiting incumbents and focusing on marginal seats


Additionally, sitting MPs have been allocated $150,000 each to direct towards local projects under the $22.65 million Stronger Communities Fund. Unlike broader programs, these grants are selected by the MPs themselves, raising concerns about their impartiality.


Both major parties are in a close battle, with polls showing the Coalition slightly ahead of Labor at 51% to 49% on a two-party-preferred basis. If replicated, Labor risks losing its majority, dropping to 71 seats, while the Coalition could gain 67 seats, pushing for a tighter parliamentary balance.


Beyond official grants, both parties are leveraging campaign spending to secure voter trust. Labor has announced $13.5 billion in funding since January, including major projects like $7.2 billion for the Bruce Highway. The Coalition has pledged at least $10.2 billion, focusing on infrastructure and tax incentives for small businesses, though some policies remain uncosted.


With the election looming, both parties continue to release community-focused initiatives, including funding for local sports facilities and wellness centres, alongside broader economic policies, as they vie for every possible vote.


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