The Nationals WA will double the annual funding available to deliver grassroots-led natural resource management (NRM) initiatives in regional and metropolitan areas.
Leader Shane Love MLA made the $60 million commitment at the 2024 WA Landcare Network Annual Gathering today, which will supercharge the Community Stewardship NRM program from $7.5 million to $15 million each year.
“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,” Mr Love said.
“We’ve 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.
“Now known as the Community Stewardship NRM program, this initiative is continuing to deliver key funding every year to land and water-based environmental initiatives that enhance and maintain WA’s pristine and unique natural environment,” Mr Love said.
Successful projects recently funded by the Community Stewardship NRM program include:
- Bushland rehabilitation across Perth: From habitat restoration to protecting endangered species like the Carnaby’s Cockatoo, local groups are revitalising critical bushlands in Perth’s backyard.
- Fire management in the Kimberley and Pilbara: Incorporating Indigenous fire management practices, these projects are building resilience against bushfires in some of WA’s most remote and iconic regions.
- Citizen science whale tracking: Volunteers along the south coast are contributing to vital research on the southern right whale population, helping gather information about this majestic species.
Mr Love said boosting funding for grassroots and community organisations to continue protecting WA natural environment was vital.
“WA’s natural environment is world-class, and our local volunteers and community groups work tirelessly to protect it,” Mr Love 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.”
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 Love 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.
