Murrurundi’s Geoff and Nikki Drummond are urging Upper Hunter business owners to seek financial assistance through the Regional Job Creation Fund.

Applications for round two of the NSW Government initiative are now open until 9am on Monday 14 March.

The pair, who owns popular gin producer Magpie Distilling, received $100,000 to assist with their business expansion plans.

Caravan and motorhome sharing platform Camplify also secured the same amount – under round one – to establish a customer service base in Muswellbrook.

“It [the funding] was a great help to Nikki and I,” Mr Drummond said.

“So, we encourage anyone who has struggled with the impacts of COVID-19 to apply.”

Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell said the $40 million program aimed to create 2,000 new direct jobs in regional NSW over three years.

“We’re looking for ventures that will attract investment through co-funded business initiatives to support economic recovery and resilience in the electorate,” he stated.

“Grants will range from $100,000 to $5 million to help fund projects such as replacing plant equipment, upgrading technology and developing regionally iconic tourism experiences.

“Businesses in the Upper Hunter have shown incredible resilience in the face of COVID-19.

“The Regional Job Creation Fund is continuing to support them by co-funding projects that drive investment, create jobs and boost economic recovery.

“The Upper Hunter and Muswellbrook LGAs have already benefitted from the program.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said round one of the Regional Job Creation Fund provided $100 million to help businesses expand, attract investment and relocate to regional NSW, supporting more than 100 projects and creating nearly 5,000 jobs in key engine industries.

“Round two should attract new investment from businesses both here and overseas and enable economic recovery across agriculture, manufacturing, energy and tourism industries and ensure they continue to thrive now and into the future,” he explained.

“Through the Regional Job Creation Fund, we will continue to build robust regional economies, giving businesses, employees and their families confidence in the growth and prosperity of regional NSW.”

For information about eligibility criteria and program guidelines, go to www.nsw.gov.au/RJCF

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