Government cash for snapback from devastating bushfires

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The provision of supplementary shelter, nest boxes and artificial hollows are just some of the things that are part of the recovery phase of last summer’s devastating fires.

Other actions under way or being planned by  local men’s sheds, conservation groups and local councils include eradicating or reducing the impact of pest animals and weeds, protecting sensitive habitat and waterways and seed collection, propagation and revegetation of native plants.

All these and more on-ground recovery actions which will benefit the local environment could qualify for financial help through the bushfire recovery for wildlife and habitat community grants program.

The $10 million program, offering grants of between $5,000 and $150,000, is part of the federal government’s $200 million investment to help native wildlife and their habitats recover from the massive impact of the bushfires.

“Areas of Wollondilly, Wingecarribee, Goulburn Mulwaree and the Upper Lachlan were deeply affected by the fires,’’ says federal member for Hume Angus Taylor said.

Recovery plan: Angus Taylor, centre, with volunteers of the Bargo Dingo Sanctuary after it was severely burnt in the Green Wattle Creek blaze.

“I know there have already been substantial rehabilitation efforts taking place in these bushfire affected environments.

“This program will mean more organisations can take part in real on the ground action,” Mr Taylor said.

“I encourage members of the community to apply for a grant and get involved in a hands-on way to help our environment bounce back.”

Grants from $5,000 to $150,000 are available to community organisations such as conservation groups, traditional owners and local councils.

Applications are now open and will close on November 27.

Grant guidelines, which include information on eligible project locations, are available at business.gov.au/brwhc

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