Landcare relieved at the Government’s on-going financial commitment of $1.1 billion in 2017 budget

11 May: The National Landcare Network and Landcare Australia welcome the Federal Government’s allocation of $1 billion to the National Landcare Programme. This secures funding for the five-year programme commencing in the 2019 fiscal year. 

The additional $100 million funding that was announced in December 2016 has been allocated for on-ground projects by Landcare groups and sustainable agriculture grants, in addition to being used for new Indigenous Protected Areas. The funds will also support the work of the National Landcare Network and Landcare Australia.

Jim Adams, CEO of the National Landcare Network is pleased with the announcement and believes it demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting a sustainable future for agriculture, as well as the 5,400 Landcare groups across Australia. “We are delighted that the Australian Government has listened to the concerns of our members and stakeholders and continued to invest in this important national asset,” Mr Adams said.

Tessa Jakszewicz, CEO of Landcare Australia, acknowledged the positive impact the Government’s promise of $1.1 billion will have on supporting the Landcare community. “This announcement provides us confidence in being able to continue to provide services that support the Landcare community through programs such as the Landcare Awards which recognise and celebrate the efforts of the over 100,000 volunteers that make up the community,” Ms Jakszewicz said. 

Both organisations look forward to working closely with the Government in planning the next steps in how the National Landcare Programme will be delivered over the next five years.