Taxpayers voting for projects they would like to see funded for their local area – sounds like something that would happen if pigs could fly.
But not only is it happening for real, part of the Macarthur region has been chosen as one of the NSW electorates to launch this democracy revolution.
Residents of Camden can now decide which projects they would most like to see funded by the NSW Government’s My Community Project (MCP).
A total of $24.4 million is available for eligible projects, with between $20,000 and $200,000 available for each project.
Voting opened on Tuesday (June 25) in Camden and Myall Lakes, the second electorate selected to launch MCP by vote.
Residents living in those areas can now cast an online vote for three to five of 15 nominated projects, including a street gym for young people in Mt Annan, a Camden region tourism app and a solar power electric vehicle charging station, pictured below.
“This is a fantastic program that is putting decision making in the hands of local residents and I’m proud the Camden electorate was chosen as one of the first two areas to kick off the voting stage,” says the Member for Camden Peter Sidgreaves.
“I’ve already voted online and it’s very easy.
“All you need is your Medicare card and a free MyServiceNSW account, which also provides quick access to a wide range NSW Government services, such as the CTP Green Slip refund for eligible policyholders.
“You can also pop down to the local Service NSW centre at The Home Centre, Steer Rd, Gregory Hills NSW 2557 where staff can help residents cast their vote.”
NSW treasurer Dominic Perrottet encouraged communities to get involved and have a say in what projects are delivered to their local area.
“My Community Project is all about people power. Communities were asked to think about what their local area needs and to develop those ideas with a sponsor and tell us how funding could turn that concept into a reality,” Mr Perrottet said.
“Now the public gets to see the projects that have been submitted in their electorate and to vote for their favourites.”
Residents in the Camden and Myall Lakes electorates can view eligible projects and vote online at mycommunityproject.service.nsw.gov.au or by visiting their nearest Service NSW centre.
Voting across NSW will close on August 15, with successful projects to be announced in September.
For further information about My Community Project and program guidelines, go to www.nsw.gov.au/SCCF
