The new shelter will include veterinary rooms, a cattery, 10 kennels, exercise areas and office facilities.

Minister Anthony Albanese said the project was expected to support three jobs during construction in the local economy.

“And it will deliver lasting benefits for Parkes and the surrounding region.

“We will deliver this funding to the Parkes Shire Council from the second round of our Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program (RLCIP).

“Already more than 3300 community construction projects have either been completed or are underway through the first round.

“The funding announced today will keep more people working locally to support the economy while building community infrastructure for the future.

“The project was put forward by the local council as a local community priority.

Parkes Shire Council has nominated its Animal Shelter project for the funding after its first-choice project – the CBD beautification works – was rejected.

Mrs Les Finn (Director of Corporate Services)) sought council endorsement for the Animal Shelter as the alternative project after earlier submitting it within the deadline so as to secure funding.

Parkes Shire Council received $543,000 in the first round of the RLCIP and allocated the funds to a number of projects across the shire including village improvements, sporting grounds, swimming pools, cultural amenities and the Pedestrian Access and Mobility Program.