Local coastal volunteer and community groups have an opportunity to share in nearly $650,000 thanks to the Victorian Government’s Coastcare Victoria Community Grants Program. Member for Werribee Tim Pallas announced applications for the 2021 program are now open, with funding available to support large and small projects that conserve, restore, and rehabilitate Victoria’s coastal and marine environments. Small-scale projects can apply for grants up to $5,000, and grants between $5,000 and $30,000 are available for larger-scale projects. This year’s grants program will support projects that: • improve community adaptation and ecosystem resilience to climate change • boost education and knowledge within the community about coastal management • support community groups to expand and diversify their volunteer bases by creating opportunities to engage youth and people from diverse backgrounds and abilities; and • support Traditional Owner self-determination on Country, including restoration of marine and cultural knowledge and practice. The Victorian Government is proud to support Coastcare Victoria and the local community groups working to protect and enhance Victoria’s 2,000 kilometres of coastline and engage the broader public in coastal stewardship. Grant applications are open until 23 June 2021. For more information on the 2021 Coastcare Victoria Community Grants Program, including funding guidelines, visit https://www.marineandcoasts.vic.gov.au/coastal-programs/Coastcare-Victoria

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas “This year’s Coastcare Victoria Community Grants Program has been expanded to include more funding streams, meaning even more opportunities for groups to deliver small and large-scale projects.” “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.”