East Gippsland landholders, Landcare groups, community organisations, Indigenous groups and Traditional Owners will receive $4 million in funding from the Morrison Government to assist in the recovery of native wildlife and habitat devastated by the black summer bushfires.
Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley said the funding will help to consolidate the wildlife and habitat recovery work already underway in the region.
“East Gippsland was severely affected by the black summer bushfires, which burnt more than 870,000 hectares of forests and coastal ecosystems in the region,” Minister Ley said.
“Since the fires, we have invested $8.5 million in on ground activities in the region to control feral predators, assist in habitat recovery by removing weeds and reducing erosion, collecting and propagating native plants and fencing sensitive areas.
“We need to do this work so that our native iconic species, like the eastern bristlebirds, glossy black cockatoos, brush tailed rock wallabies, spot tailed quolls and East Gippsland banksia can return to their natural environment and thrive.”
The funding is part of $14 million package being directed to Landcare Australia, in partnership with the National Landcare network.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the funding would help provide community organisations with the support they need to aid the recovery of the region.
“There is still a lot of healing to do in our community,” Mr Chester said.
“Caring for environment, whether it is removing weeds, building fences or building nest boxes is one way our community can start the healing process.
“The installation of tree and log hollows, revegetation on private land and crucial pest animal and weed control are helping species like the Long-footed Potoroo and Greater Glider that had much of their ranges impacted by the fires, return to the region.
“This funding will help us build back better and support our longer term goal of recovery and resilience.
Information on the program, including how to apply for funding and put your project forward for consideration, can be found at http://lvi.org.au/ and https://landcareaustralia.org.au/
