The Nature Conservation Council welcomes Federal Labor’s pledge to allocate $200 million for urban river restoration if it wins the next election. [1]
In a statement the ALP has committed to establish a $200 million Urban Rivers and Catchments Program, which would fund about 100 projects, ranging from smaller community group projects worth well under $1 million to larger projects state and local government projects worth up to $10m.
“This initiative is welcomed by NCC members groups, many of which are involved in habitat restoration along urban rivers and wetlands,” NCC Chief Executive Chris Gambian said.
“So many people want to do something practical to protect and restore the natural environment where they live, but it takes time and money.
“Volunteers have the time and are prepared to put in the labour, but they are held back by a lack financial resources to get the job done. This is a great initiative.”
“Urban rivers like the George’s, Parramatta and Nepean are being trashed by over-development and poor stormwater management.
“Small projects can have a huge impact, improving water quality and the health rivers, enhancing amenity for local communities.
“Making more rivers swimmable as Sydney’s summers get hotter is going to be an important priority into the future.”
The announcement confirms Labor will retain the policy announced by former Labor leader Bill Shorten in January 2019. [2]
REFERENCES
[1] Labor’s Plan to Fix Our Urban Rivers, 9-11-21
[2] Labor's $200m pledge to 'boots on the ground' groups to fix rivers, SMH, 28-1-19