The Allan Labor Government is boosting funding for Victoria’s wildlife rescue volunteers who dedicate their time and expertise to care for sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos today opened applications for the Wildlife Rehabilitator Grants with up to $3,000 in funding available as part of a $300,000 investment to support wildlife rescue volunteers provide native animals in need of rehabilitation. Wildlife shelter operators and foster carers can apply for funding to cover a range of expenses, including equipment, vet fees, training, feed and medication. Wildlife shelter operators can up apply for up to $3,000. Foster carers can apply for up $2,000. In January this year, $230,000 worth of grants were awarded to support 102 wildlife organisations continue to provide vital care for thousands of native animals across Victoria – enhancing facilities to treat, house and rehabilitate wildlife for release while boosting skills and knowledge through education and training. Since 2015, the Labor Government has invested $6.3 million to support the work of foster carers, authorised wildlife shelter operators and key wildlife organisations – building on a historic $609 million investment in Victoria’s environment since 2014. Applications opened on Wednesday 27 November 2024 and close on Wednesday 5 February 2025. For more information visit on Wildlife Rehabilitator Grants and to submit an application visit, wildlife.vic.gov.au/grants/wildlife-rehabilitator-grants/.

Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas “I encourage local groups to take advantage of this great opportunity to expand and improve the facilities for wildlife rescue, and the care which can be provided by foster carers. “We are supporting Victoria’s incredible wildlife rescue volunteers who dedicate themselves to care for sick, injured and orphaned wildlife in our community.”