The Australian Government is delivering on its election commitment to improve the health of the River Torrens with a $1 million injection of funding under the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme.

Federal Environment Parliamentary Secretary and Senator for South Australia, Simon Birmingham, today officially launched the River Torrens Recovery Programme, saying the funding will be directed to help improve water quality, native habitat condition and community awareness of river health.

“The River Torrens is one of South Australia’s most significant rivers. It plays a vital role in conveying storm and flood waters away from urban roads and infrastructure, and provides valuable habitat for birds, animals and aquatic life.” Senator Birmingham said.  

“The river is also a haven for locals and tourists alike. The popular Linear Park Trail along part of the river’s corridor is regularly filled with cyclists and walkers enjoying its natural beauty and amenity.

“The Australian Government is committed to improving the health of this important waterway and protecting it from the impacts of pollution and urban population growth,” said Senator Birmingham. 

“The funding will be allocated over two years to support a suite of works to rehabilitate the river catchment, including revegetation, invasive species control and river bank stabilisation, complementing existing restoration work within the catchment.”  

Minister for Education and Member for Sturt, Christopher Pyne, and Member for Hindmarsh, Matt Williams both welcomed the announcement.

“Healthy urban rivers are important for creating safe, liveable cities. They improve the quality of life of the people who live in them,” Mr Pyne said.

“The River Torrens is a place where the community can relax and take pleasure in the natural environment.  It’s great to see the health of this iconic river will continue to be improved for everyone to enjoy,” Mr Williams said.

The River Torrens Recovery Programme is part of the Australian Government’s Coastal River Recovery Initiative which will provide $9.3 million over four years to improve the environmental health of five of Australia’s most iconic waterways.

More information about the Coastal River Recovery Plan is available at www.nrm.gov.au.