The Rudd Labor Government will provide almost $3.5 million to build a new North Shore Community Centre in Mudjimba on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.

I made the announcement today at Mudjimba.

The centre will provide much needed social, recreational and cultural facilities to the region.

This project is worth a total of more than $4.2 million and is expected to support 33 jobs during construction, as well as another two jobs over the longer term.

This funding for the North Shore Community Centre will help create jobs in the local economy today while delivering lasting benefits for the community.

The North Shore area experienced a 30 per cent population growth between 2001 and 2006, and existing facilities are struggling to meet the community’s needs.

The purpose of the Community Centre was determined through extensive community consultation and public participation.

This Sunshine Coast Regional Council project is expected to include the construction of the community centre building, including a foyer with two wings, as well as landscaping to external areas.

The Centre will also include multi-purpose rooms, playground facilities, a kitchen, stage, courtyard seating and a new reception area.

The funding is part of our Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program, which is delivering a record $1 billion for nearly 5,000 projects across the nation.

Across Australia, we are building and modernising community facilities, including town halls, libraries, community centres and sports grounds.

The Rudd Labor Government is partnering with local government to support the economy while building community infrastructure for the future.

The funding is conditional upon the council formalising a contract with the Government and meeting relevant conditions.