Media Statement - 3rd July 2008
Projects to boost the sustainable management of Australia’s farms, rivers and oceans and national icons can now apply for a share of $25 million in funding under a landmark Rudd Government initiative.
The $25 million Open Grants 2008 fund is part of the $2.25 billion Caring for our Country package, announced in March by Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts Peter Garrett and Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke.
Caring for our Country is a five-year initiative to deliver a new, coordinated approach to environmental management in Australia, built on a set of consistent national targets.
It is part of the Rudd Government’s plans to assist our primary industries and the environment to adapt to a changing climate.
Regional and farming groups are now encouraged to apply for the Open Grants funding, including for projects to tackle weeds, promote sustainable farming practices and restore threatened species habitat.
Grants of between $80,000 and $400,000 are available to councils, schools, groups, individuals, companies, partnerships, Indigenous groups, incorporated groups, trusts and unincorporated groups sponsored by a legal entity.
Projects must meet key criteria under the Caring for our Country program, including:
- protect the nation’s biodiversity;
- improve water quality of critical aquatic habitats;
- increase take-up of sustainable farming practices;
- address environmental and sustainable land management outcomes in remote and northern Australia;
- improve the national reserve system; and
- improve community skills, knowledge and engagement.
An important focus of the $25 million Open Grants fund will be projects that promote sustainable farm practices.
These projects could address a range of issues, including reducing farm greenhouse gas emissions, animal and crop production, managing organic waste, climate change, water quality and salinity.
Mr Burke said climate change posed a major threat to farmers if the Government didn’t act, but there were opportunities if action was taken to help farmers adapt.
“The Rudd Government is investing in research to ensure the farming sector and the environment are more resilient in the face of climate change,” Mr Burke said.
“We are building a modern Australia for the future, by tackling the challenges of the present.”
Community groups have already shown strong interest through telephone enquiries.
Applications for the Open Grants funding close 5:00pm (AEST) Friday 1 August 2008. For more information go to www.nrm.gov.au