The Andrews Labor Government has awarded more than $4.4 million worth of grants to Victorian youth and volunteer groups to further improve the state’s natural environment.

Member for Hastings Paul Mercurio today announced the local recipients of the $3.98 million 2023 Victorian Landcare Grants which will help volunteers protect and restore our landscapes.

More than 240 projects across Victoria were allocated grants worth up to $20,000 to further safeguard the state’s biodiversity, while $500 grants will be given to 269 environmental volunteer groups to assist with administration and running costs.

The funding will help local projects including Balnarring Foreshore & Parks Reserve, Merricks Coolart Catchment Landcare Group, Emu Plains Racecourse and Recreation Reserve Committee of Management Committee, French Island Landcare Group, Mornington Peninsula Koala Conservation. Undertaking a range of work from community conservation, creating bio-links and restoring native habitat.

The Labor Government is also backing Victoria’s kindergartens, schools and other youth groups – distributing more than $470,000 through the 2023 Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants.

These grants will deliver hands-on projects and outdoor educational activities – giving thousands of children across the state the opportunity to learn more about our environment and biodiversity.

The funding will help Somers Primary School, Woodleigh School and St Mary's Catholic Primary School. Undertaking efforts to improve biodiversity, improve educational outcomes and protecting our Indigenous wetlands.

The funding of volunteer groups is underpinned by the Andrews Labor Government’s Biodiversity 2037 strategy, a record investment of $582 million since 2014 – the biggest investment into protecting biodiversity and environment in our state’s history.

A full list of this year’s Landcare and Biodiversity Grant recipients can be found at environment.vic.gov.au/grants. 

Quotes attributable to Member for Hastings Paul Mercurio

“This funding is an important way that we’re supporting volunteers and their communities to secure our environment for future generations.”

“Our volunteers are invaluable, and these grants will allow them to continue to make a significant difference at a grassroots level.”

“Encouraging children to get involved in projects like these can lead to a lifelong appreciation of nature and community.”