Infrastructure and Local Government Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that the Rudd Labor Government will  offer up to $2.2 million towards the Sapphire Aquatic Centre in Pambula on the NSW South Coast.

The Government is providing the majority of funding for this $3.86 million project to deliver a modern heated pool facility in Pambula.

The existing six-lane, 25-metre outdoor pool can only operate for six months of the year because of cold weather.

Federal funding will help redevelop the Sapphire Aquatic Centre pool into an eight-lane, 25-metre, indoor heated pool, which can be used all year.

The funding is part of our $800 million Community Infrastructure Program - the largest one-off investment in local infrastructure in Australia's history.

We are investing in community and sporting facilities like this to support jobs and stimulate local economies during the global economic recession.

I know that the Sapphire Aquatic Centre project has had strong community support. I am pleased that the Government's funding for this project will help make a real difference to the lives of local residents and visitors.

Federal funding for the Bega Valley Shire Council will contribute to construction which is expected to include the following projects:

•  Widen the existing 25 metre pool from six to eight lanes;


•  Cover and enclose the swimming complex to enable all year use;


•  Add a disabled access ramp;


•  Replace the toddlers' pools with a multi-purpose pool;


•  Convert the existing amenities block to a gymnasium and club room and construct a new amenities block; and


•  Construct a kiosk, kitchen and a child minding facility;

The funding announced today builds on the $1.04 million we have already delivered for 29 local infrastructure projects in the Bega Valley Council.

It brings Rudd Government funding for Bega Valley community infrastructure to more than $3.2 million in the last four months.

More than 3,000 community projects are being funded by the Government across Australia to support jobs and deliver long-term benefits in communities.