Queenslanders encouraged to transform their property into nature refuges

Queenslanders who want to transform their property into a refuge for native animals and flora are being encouraged to apply for the latest round of NatureAssist grants.

Following the Queensland Government’s major conservation land acquisitions including 131,900 hectares in Cape York, Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said eligible landholders could apply for a share of $2.2 million to help expand or transform part or all of their property into a nature refuge.

The funding could be used for habitat restoration, refuge expansions greater than 1,000 hectares, weed and feral animal control programs, the development of cultural heritage plans or the installation of fences or other control measures to restrict stock access to environmentally sensitive areas.

Minister Scanlon notes “Private nature refuges provide important additional habitat for conservation, complementing our public national parks. There are 550 nature refuges right across the state covering 4.4 million hectares, but we know there are plenty more property owners out there who want to do their bit and protect the environment.

A nature refuge is a voluntary agreement between a landholder and the Queensland Government to conserve the significant natural and cultural values of privately managed land.

Minister Scanlon adds “A nature refuge is one of the strongest ways a landholder can demonstrate their environmental stewardship and to ensure that their good land management practices will be continued into the future, even when the property changes hands.

Minister Scanlon said since the NatureAssist program started in 2007, almost $16 million had been provided to 120 projects across the state and had resulted in a significant expansion of Queensland’s protected area system.

Expressions of Interest are now open and will close at 4pm on 20th May 2022.

To apply or for more information head to qld.gov.au/environment/parks/protected-areas/private/program