Men’s sheds, conservation or community organisations, Landcare networks, 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 Federal Government program, offering grants of between $5000 to 150,000, is part of the Government’s $200 million investment to help native wildlife and their habitats recover from the devastating impact of last summer’s bushfires.
Nationals Senator for New South Wales Perin Davey said the grants are available to grass roots organisations who are best placed to know what is needed in their area to assist wildlife recovery.
“Our community was deeply affected by the fires and there are many people who are already getting out and rehabilitating bushfire affected environments. These grants mean these organisations and others can get funding to undertake real on the ground action,” Senator Davey 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.”
Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley is encouraging members of the community to apply for a grant and get involved in a hands-on way to help our environment bounce back.”
“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.”
Eligible project activities include provision of supplementary shelter, nest boxes and artificial hollows, eradicating or reducing the impact of pest animals and weeks, 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