Gippsland will receive $150,000 for community groups to undertake projects that conserve and protect the local environment.
The Federal Government has announced funding to deliver practical environmental projects, giving communities new opportunities to protect and care for their local environment.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the Communities Environment Program would provide $150,000 to each Federal Electorate in 2019-20.
Expressions of Interest (EoI) are currently open and must be returned to Mr Chester by March 28, 2019.
The program builds on the Coalition’s strong record of investing in grassroots environmental action through initiatives such as the $1 billion National Landcare Program and 20 Million Trees.
“A broad range of organisations will be eligible, including Lions and Rotary clubs, Indigenous organisations, Landcare groups, schools and other community and conservation groups,” Mr Chester said.
“The program will fund small-scale projects to restore wetlands, riverbanks and waterways, protect native animals, reduce waste and litter and to green local parks and urban areas.
“It might be a project to enhance a local river, protect the Gippsland Lakes or establish a nature trail to allow more Gippslanders to enjoy our beautiful environment.
“We are harnessing local communities and local knowledge to protect and enhance our environment.”
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the government was backing community organisations to deliver a range of on-ground projects that conserve and protect Australia’s environment.
“Locals know best and we will support and encourage projects such as revegetating riverbanks and wetlands, removing weeds from parks and reserves or restoring sand dunes on our coasts,” Mr Morrison said.
Each electorate can receive funding for up to 20 projects, with grants ranging from $2,500 to $20,000.
Organisations seeking to apply to the Communities Environment Program are urged to contact Mr Chester’s office on 1300 131 785 to obtain an EoI form.
EoIs must be completed and returned to Mr Chester’s office by March 28, 2019.
