Facilitated by public appeals and donations, the WIRES Landcare Wildlife Relief and Recovery Grants will provide eligible local Landcare environment networks and community groups access to grant funding of up to $20 000 for restoration projects.
Vital relief programs for bushfire-affected habitats have been delayed due to the coronavirus.
The WIRES Landcare Wildlife Relief and Recovery Grants will support the implementation of regeneration projects for vulnerable native species.
WIRES chief executive officer Leanne Taylor said the partnership with Landcare Australia marked the beginning of a powerful union, committed to protecting and preserving Australian wildlife.
“This partnership between Landcare Australia and WIRES is an important step towards the restoration and recovery of Australian wildlife and landscapes deeply scarred by the unparalleled impacts of bushfires and drought,” she said.
Landcare Australia chief executive officer Shane Norrish said the grants program would improve habitat rehabilitation projects.
“Through partnerships like this, Landcare Australia is getting on with the job of providing funding to local groups quickly and helping to drive and co-ordinate national bushfire and drought response with targeted high-priority actions, which are delivered on the ground by locals,” Mr Norrish said.
“For over 30 years, WIRES has actively rehabilitated and preserved Australian wildlife and inspired others to do the same.
“Now WIRES are funding community-led protection of habitat by actively supporting Landcare groups and networks, and other environmental community groups to improve the outcomes for wildlife and biodiversity.”
Applications for grants close on Thursday, April 30, and successful applicants will be notified in late May.
For more information and to apply, go to landcareaustralia.org.au/wireslandcaregrants