THE HON TANYA PLIBERSEK MP
MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER
Thursday, 21 December 2023
FUNDING BOOST TO BETTER PROTECT ICONIC AUSSIE SPECIES
The Red Handfish, Northern Hairy-nosed Wombat and Imlay Mallee are just some of the threatened animals set to benefit from a $24 million funding boost from the Australian Government, as part of ongoing efforts to save our native species.
61 projects have been awarded grants of up to $500,000 to support organisations to better protect populations of threatened plants and animals. These include activities such as reducing the risk of fire to habitat, controlling invasive species like feral cats and foxes, and tree plantings and weed removal to restore nature.
The Australian Government will also soon open another round of grants to invest up to $11.5 million in innovative projects like new technologies, methods and tools that are ready to go, to fast track efforts to combat threats on vulnerable and endangered species.
Eligible projects include the national registration of tools to control invasive species, vaccinations to mitigate the impact of disease in threatened species, and new technologies to detect contagious diseases in the environment.
Grants ranging from $30,000 to $3 million will be available, with applications opening in early 2024. Groups can now view the grant guidelines and planning prior to grants opening. Further information on the grants can be found at Saving Native Species - DCCEEW.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for the Environment and Water, the Hon Tanya Plibersek MP:
“We’re determined to better protect our precious plants and animals so they can be enjoyed by our kids and grandkids.
“We know that there are fantastic scientists, conservationists, and passionate local groups in communities right across Australia who are doing the work on the ground to better understand threats and better protect native species. This work is urgent, and we want to make sure it can happen quickly and effectively where it makes the most difference.
“This is just part of our $500 million investment to protect native species and tackle invasive pests.”
ENDS
