Regional Assistance Programs

Infrastructure NSW effectively manages how grant applications for regional assistance programs are assessed and recommended for funding. Its contract management processes are also effective.

However, we are unable to conclude whether the objectives of these programs have been achieved as the relevant agencies have not yet measured their benefits, according to a report released today by the Auditor-General for New South Wales, Margaret Crawford.

'Each of the regional assistance programs include a number of projects and when the benefits are not tracked on a project by project basis, learnings are less likely to be applied to projects still in progress or being assessed for future funding'.

In this audit, the Auditor-General focused on two regional assistance programs - the Resources for Regions and Fixing Country Roads programs. For both programs, the Department of Premier and Cabinet and Transport for NSW have developed good strategies to support local councils when applying for funding.

In response to our report, Infrastructure NSW has undertaken to collaborate with the Department of Premier and Cabinet and Transport for NSW to ensure that program benefits are reported when 50 per cent of projects in each program are completed, and again after program completion.

Further information

Barry Underwood, Director, Office of the Auditor-General, on 0403 073 664 and email barry.underwood@audit.nsw.gov.au.