A Coalition Government will commit $1 million over two years to improve the environmental health of the Swan River.
Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment Simon Birmingham announced the Coalition’s Swan-Canning River Recovery Programme with Member for Swan Steve Irons today.
“The Swan River is an iconic feature of Perth as well as a key habitat for a range of native plants and animals,” Senator Birmingham said.
“Steve Irons has led the charge to secure this funding to help local environment groups work towards the recovery of the Swan River.
“The Swan River is under stress from urban population growth, water pollution and the loss of habitat for native species.”
The Coalition will provide $1 million towards a wildlife recovery, weed management and river improvement program, to be developed under the guidance of a local steering group. The funding will go towards weed eradication ($500,000), practical community action ($400,000) and river awareness through local education ($100,000).
“This funding, together with the potential for local Green Army projects, will deliver real results by assisting with weed eradication, revegetation, practical community action and river awareness through local education,” Senator Birmingham said.
Mr Irons welcomed the funding, which he said would assist the voluntary work of local organisations already working on the environmental health of the river.
“This program will be developed under the guidance of a local steering group, ensuring that actions get the best value for money and are informed by on the ground, local knowledge,” Mr Irons said.
“By committing resources towards a wildlife recovery, weed management and river improvement program we will achieve a cleaner, healthier, more vibrant Swan River for our local community to enjoy.”