A re-elected Coalition Government will invest approximately $1 million in the recovery of the Georges River through five new Green Army projects costing approximately $200,000 each. This investment in new Green Army teams is in addition to the $1 million committed to the Georges River under the Improving Your Local Parks and Environment Plan.
The Green Army provides opportunities for young Australians aged 17-24 years to gain training and experience which will assist them in the future to find jobs, while generating real benefits for the local environment.
The projects will:
• Rehabilitate Georges River through removing invasive species and reducing risk of weeds spreading to other areas of the river;
• Replant native species and stabilise river banks to improve water quality; and
• Conduct track work and exclusion fencing to ensure safe public access and reduce environmental degradation.
“These projects will help to ensure that our local areas and environment are protected and threatened species’ habitats are strengthened,” Mr Coleman said.
“The Green Army teams will work in partnership with local community groups to deliver the projects.”
The Green Army has been a huge success with 1145 projects announced nationally and more than 700 projects already rolled out in urban, rural and remote areas.
In New South Wales, 250 Green Army projects have already been completed or are currently underway.
The Green Army is a hands-on, practical environmental action programme that supports local communities to undertake environment and heritage conservation projects across Australia while offering participants valuable skills and practical experience.
“We will work with local government, local residents and community groups in the design of the projects,” Minister Hunt said.
“David is a great local member who talks to me regularly about the environmental needs of the Georges River and his local community. He should be congratulated for advocating for these projects so strongly.”
The Green Army programme not only benefits the environment, but also provides participants with skills and experience which will support them in finding jobs or further education.
Funding for these projects has been provided for from within existing budget resources.
To find out more about the Green Army visit: www.australia.gov.au/greenarmy