JMR WITH ENVIRONMENT MINISTER LEY
Men’s sheds, conservation groups, community organisations, not-for-profits and traditional owners can now apply for grants through the Bushfire Recovery for Wildlife and Habitat Community Grants Program to undertake on-ground recovery actions which will benefit their local environment.
The $10 million Morrison Government program, offering grants of between $5,000 to $150,000, is part of the Government’s $200 million investment to help native wildlife and their habitats recover from the devastating impacts of last summer’s bushfires.
“Communities have been profoundly affected by the fires. They have also shown tremendous resilience and taking an active role in the recovery of the environment could be an integral part of the healing journey for many people,” Minister Ley said.
“I have visited communities and have seen first-hand the early results of bushfire recovery work on habitats. Recovery is already happening, but it is going to take time and the community has a vital role to play in making it happen.”
“Our community was deeply affected by the fires and the impact on wildlife. I know there are many people in regional Victoria who are already getting out and rehabilitating bushfire affected environments. These grants mean more organisations can now take part in real on the ground action,” Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said.
“The Government recognises that harnessing local knowledge and stewardship, along with financial support, is essential to recovery and building the resilience of native plants and animals.”
“I encourage members of our community to apply for a grant and get involved in a hands-on way to help our environment bounce back.”
Grants from $5,000 to $150,000 are available to community organisations, conservation groups, Traditional Owners and local governments.
Eligible project activities include provision of supplementary shelter, nest boxes and artificial hollows, eradicating or reducing the impact of pest animals and weeds, protecting sensitive habitat and waterways, and seed collection, propagation and revegetation of native plants.
Applications are now open and will close on 27 November 2020. Grant guidelines, which include information on eligible project locations, are available at business.gov.au/brwhc
22 October 2020