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 Laverton Sarah Connolly 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.

Landcare Support Grant Recipient

Truganina Landcare Inc (Truganina) - $500

The Junior Landcare Grants

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 Sunshine Heights Primary Schools deliver their ‘Planting the Seeds of Biodiversity Through Augmented Reality to the Community’ project. Their goal being to foster a harmonious coexistence between native flora and fauna, and re-establishing native vegetation in the area.

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 Laverton Sarah Connolly

“Projects like these can inspire a lifelong love and appreciation of nature while supporting the protection of our environment for future generations.”