Local coastal volunteer and community groups, including those in Hobsons Bay, will share in over $1.5 million thanks to the latest round of funding from the state government’s Coastcare Victoria Community Grants Program and Port Phillip Bay Fund.
Werribee MP Tim Pallas has announced applications for both grant programs are now open, with funding available to support large and small projects that conserve, restore and rehabilitate Victoria’s coastal and marine environments.
Recognising Port Phillip Bay as one of Victoria’s most precious natural assets, the Bay Fund helps community groups, schools and scouts, non-government organisations, research institutes and councils to address key issues impacting the bay.
In 2022, $1.2 million will be available to support a healthier Port Phillip Bay, with a focus on conserving and protecting coastal habitats and the marine ecosystem.
Grants of up to $100,000 are available for innovative, large-scale projects and up to $25,000 for smaller projects.
The Bay Fund will also provide $1.4 million over four years to support targeted projects to address knowledge gaps and underpin the science and evidence base for the health of the bay and a further,$800,000 over four years will support traditional owners and custodians to care for sea and land.
Through the Coastcare Grants Program, $375,000 will be distributed to community-led projects in coastal areas that conserve, restore and rehabilitate Victoria’s coastal and marine environments, with grants of up to $10,000 available.
“I’m really proud to support the dedicated efforts of local community groups and volunteers working to look after our iconic and special coastal and marine environment,” Mr Pallas said.
“Applications are now open, and I encourage local community groups to get involved, apply so they can deliver some fantastic projects on the ground to protect our wonderful coastal areas.”
Coastcare grant applications are now open and will close on March 9.
Port Phillip Bay Fund grant applications will close March 14.
Details: www.marineandcoasts.vic.gov.au/coastal-programs/Coastcare-Victoria, www.marineandcoasts.vic.gov.au/grants/port-phillip-bay-fund.
