The Andrews Labor Government is protecting the internationally significant Gippsland Lakes by investing in projects that improve habitat, protect native wildlife, and benefit the local community.
Minister for Water Harriet Shing announced $4 million across four priority projects that will be delivered in partnership with the Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee.
Protecting and Improving the Wetlands of Jones Bay and Lake King received $1.14 million
to enhance the local wetlands through invasive species management to protect shorebirds and improve breeding opportunities for waterbirds on Flannagan Island.
The Labor Government is also investing $1.6 million in the Lake Wellington and Fringing Wetlands Integrated NRM Program to improve the condition and connectivity of Lake Wellington and surrounding wetlands, and enhance critical habitat for Green, Golden Bell and Growling Grass Frogs.
Gunaikurnai Land and Water Aboriginal Corporation received $704,000 towards the Gunaikurnai Country of the Gippsland Lakes Outer Barrier which will enhance habitat for native flora and fauna on the Gippsland Lakes outer barrier as well as assess the impacts of climate change on Country.
The Labor Government will also provide $640,000 towards the Understanding and Improving Aquatic Habitats and Ecosystems project, which will increase aquatic habitat within the lakes by installing ‘seagrass friendly’ boat moorings and improving beach nesting sites for birds though the renourishment of sand islands.
The Government has invested $7.5 million towards the Gippsland Lakes over three years to support to the Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee to deliver these critical on-ground works and community engagement.
The committee will be guided by the Gippsland Lakes Priorities Plan, Gippsland Lakes Ramsar Site Management Plan, Gunaikurnai Whole-of-Country-Plan and the East and West Gippsland Regional Waterway strategies.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Water Harriet Shing
“These priority projects will deliver great outcomes for one of Victoria’s most environmentally significant waterways providing cultural and community benefits.”
“The importance of the Gippsland Lakes environment cannot be underestimated and the ongoing work to enhance and future proof them is essential.”
Quote attributable to Chair of Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee Glenys Watts
“I am delighted to see these important projects being endorsed. Working together to share and build knowledge, especially that of Traditional Owners, is the future for delivering results for the environment and community of the Gippsland Lakes.”
Reviewed 24 August 2022