The Andrews Labor Government has announced almost $200,000 in Wildlife Rehabilitator Grant funding for 75 of the state’s authorised wildlife shelters and foster carers.

The grants provide wildlife rehabilitators with financial assistance to support and enhance their vital caring efforts for sick, injured and orphaned wildlife.

In Werribee, grants totalling $2,636 have been awarded to local carers who will use the funding for a range of upgrades and supports including new heating and cooling devices for wildlife care, and raw materials for the construction of more shelter for rescued wildlife.

In 2020-21, individual grants of up to $3,000 have been awarded, an increase of $500 on last year.

Since 2014 the program has provided almost $1.5 million in individual grants through an annual competitive grant process, and organisation grants to key wildlife institutions. This also includes more than $40,000 awarded to 42 authorised shelters and carers through the Wildlife Rehabilitator Bushfire Grants program following the 2019-2020 Victorian bushfires.

The government is also continuing its support for the important services provided by the Victorian Wildlife Hotline operated by Wildlife Victoria, with $494,000 allocated in the 2020/21 State Budget. Anyone who finds sick, injured or orphaned wildlife can use the Victorian Government’s Help for Injured Wildlife online tool to find a registered shelter or carer anywhere in Victoria.

To report a sick or injured animal, contact Wildlife Victoria’s hotline on 8400 7300 or visit www.wildlifevictoria.org.au for information and advice. Or got to https://www.wildlife.vic.gov.au/injured-native-wildlife/help-for-injured-wildlife

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“Individual wildlife carers play an important role in sustainable management and conservation of wildlife here in Wyndham.”

“This funding will help local wildlife carers and shelters continue their important work.”