The Nationals WA will double the annual funding available to deliver grassroots-led natural resource management (NRM) initiatives in regional and metropolitan areas.
The $60 million commitment will supercharge the Community Stewardship NRM program from $7.5 million to $15 million each year.
Nationals WA candidate for Central Wheatbelt Lachlan Hunter said this injection of funds will see more community groups, local governments, Aboriginal organisations, biosecurity groups, and not-for-profits empowered to lead on-ground environmental projects in their communities and regions.
“The Nationals have always backed WA’s local environmental champions. In 2009, The Nationals in Government implemented funding for community-driven NRM initiatives through the successful State NRM Program, which supported over 850 locally led environmental projects.
“Boosting funding for grassroots and community organisations to continue protecting WA’s natural environment is vital, our environment is world-class, and our local volunteers and community groups work tirelessly to protect it,” Mr Hunter said
“But they can’t do it alone, especially as climate change and rising costs put added pressure on their work. This funding boost gives them the support they deserve.”
Successful projects recently funded by the Community Stewardship NRM program include bushland rehabilitation across Perth and fire management in the Kimberley and Pilbara.
The Nationals in Government will also raise the maximum threshold for funding from $450,000 to $500,000.
“With rising costs, bigger projects need bigger support. By raising the grant cap, we’re supporting local organisations to deliver big on the environmental projects they care about,” Mr Hunter said.
The $60 million initiative over four years will be powered by a revitalised Royalties for Regions program, allocating $45 million, alongside $15 million from consolidated revenue.
