Funding helps volunteers protect Victoria’s natural environment

More than $4.4 million worth of Victorian Government grants have been awarded to the State’s  youth and volunteer groups to further improve Victoria’s natural environment.

More than 240 projects were allocated grants worth up to $20,000 to further safeguard the state’s biodiversity, while $500 grants will be given to 269 environmental volunteer groups to assist with administration and running costs.

The funding will help to transform a wetland in Shepparton, expand habitat for Gang-gang Cockatoos around Apollo Bay and install a network of 100 nest boxes at Benalla for local wildlife.

The State Government is also backing Victoria’s kindergartens, schools and other youth groups – distributing more than $470,000 through the 2023 Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants.

These grants will deliver hands-on projects and outdoor educational activities – giving thousands of children across the state the opportunity to learn more about our environment and biodiversity.

The funding will help Mernda Park Primary plant flowering gums to provide nesting habitat for the Swift Parrot, while Kongwak Primary School will be able to install wildlife nesting boxes and Lower Plenty Primary School will soon construct a frog pond.

The funding of volunteer groups is underpinned by the Victorian Government’s Biodiversity 2037 strategy, a record investment of $582 million since 2014.

Victorian Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt noted “this funding is an important way that we’re supporting volunteers and their communities to secure our environment for future generations.

“Our volunteers are invaluable, and these grants will allow them to continue to make a significant difference at a grassroots level.

“Encouraging children to get involved in projects like these can lead to a lifelong appreciation of nature and community.”

A full list of this year’s Landcare and Biodiversity Grant recipients can be found at environment.vic.gov.au/grants.  https://www.environment.vic.gov.au/grants

Image. Phillip Island Landcare Group celebrate 1,500 plants and guards in the ground in Ventnor, Phillip Island, on the lands of the Bunurong and Boon Wurrung people. Credt: Phillip Island Landcare Group