Landcare Australia has moved to head off the impact of federal budget cuts, calling for greater non-government funding of its volunteer environmental program.
“This year sees 25 years since Landcare began as a national initiative and, as we look to the future, funding from all sectors is hugely important to ensure the resilience of the movement,” chief executive Tessa Jakszewicz said. “The issues that led to the growth of Landcare in the 1980s are still relevant today and, without funding to support the tens of thousands of volunteers who dedicate their time to protecting, restoring and sustaining our natural environment, we are going to face serious issues in the future.”
Landcare has grown over the past quarter of a century into a grassroots movement that has taken city people back to their rural roots and opened the eyes of many Australians to the importance of protecting diverse natural environments.
Ms Jakszewicz was keen to make sure people were aware that “Landcare Australia is still here” in the hope that they would help with funding and continue to stay connected.
The Victorian government has stepped in to fill the breach for this year at least, committing to support the national Landcare conference and awards, in Melbourne in September.
State Environment and Climate Change Minister Ryan Smith last week announced $75,000 in funding for this year’s conference.
“Landcare is a key environmental group that makes a huge contribution to the health of the nation and plays an important part in bringing our community together,” Mr Smith said.
“This funding is on top of the $5.5 million for practical on-ground partnerships with Landcare groups to facilitate the identification and restoration of local environment projects, recently announced in the 2014-15 Victorian state budget.”
