Walcha Council received the grant under the NSW Government’s Innovation Fund, which provides one-off grants to selected rural and regional councils with a population of less than 10,000 people.

This grants program supports councils to find smart solutions to local issues. Councils also had the chance to team up with neighbouring councils to fund joint projects.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the grant will allow Walcha Council to move to cloud-based technology which will allow the council to operate more efficiently and economically.

“The NSW government wants to make sure every community gets their fair share of support and this program is a great way to reach those smaller communities which face different challenges to other parts of NSW,” Mr Anderson said.

“This program isn’t just about solving problems; it’s about improving the lives of ratepayers by delivering the local services that they deserve.

This round of grants is on top of $2 million in Innovation grants awarded to almost 20 councils last year.

Walcha Council Mayor Eric Noakes said Council continues to look for ways to improve their processes which ultimately results in better outcomes for local ratepayers.

“We want to ensure we find ways to streamline processes and make Walcha Council more efficient.

“This is all about finding ways to spend less money on backroom procedures and more money in the community where it belongs.”