New grassroots funding to support local communities

Posted 20 July 2020.

One of the first initiatives to be launched by the new regional Landscape Boards, the Grassroots Grants program will support volunteers, community groups, not-for-profit organisations and collectives to undertake local projects. Across the state, $2 million in funding will be provided.

Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said the program ensures there are more funding opportunities for communities dedicated to working in our landscape regions.

“Local community groups, not-for-profit organisations and volunteers will be able to apply for funding from their regional landscape board to help them sustainably manage their local landscapes,” Minister Speirs said.

“The Grassroots Grants program will support community and volunteer groups to play a significant role in managing our natural resources, including carrying out on-ground works.

“Successful funding will help local communities to be directly responsible for managing their region’s natural resources.

“Funding could be used to kick start a new project or build upon an existing one for activities such as weed treatment, pest or disease management.”

Chair of the SA Arid Lands Landscape Board Ross Sawers said this will be a timely opportunity for the local community, including the new council areas in the realigned SA Arid Lands region to become involved.

“The SA Arid Lands community typically welcomes the opportunity to apply for additional resources to extend their care and protection for the environment with a little extra support,” Mr Sawers said.

The board encourages landholder groups, volunteer networks and Aboriginal communities to consider how their ideas align with the goals of the Grassroots Grants program and encourages people to make contact with the team to support the development of suitable applications.”

The Landscape South Australia Act 2019 replaced the Natural Resources Management Act 2004 on 1 July 2020, providing an exciting new framework to manage the state’s soil, water, pest plants and animals, and biodiversity.

Eight regional landscape boards will support local communities to be directly responsible for managing their region’s landscape.

They will work alongside another new entity, Green Adelaide, which will be an innovative and expert-based organisation charged with transforming Adelaide into a world-leading, sustainable, green and climate-resilient city.

Applications close 24 August 2020. For more information on how to apply visit https://landscape.sa.gov.au/saal/get-involved/grants-and-funding