The Andrews Labor Government has announced a review of its program of support for Landcare to make sure it is up to supporting the needs of volunteers and communities.
Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water Lisa Neville announced the review as part of the Labor Government’s commitment to ensuring we provide effective support to the Landcare community across Victoria through the Victorian Landcare Program.
The review process begins with gathering a wide-range of community views in order to strengthen the role and scope of local facilitators and develop the best possible long-term arrangements for the Victorian Landcare Program and the Victorian Landcare Facilitator Program.
A stakeholder reference group has been established as part of the review’s consultation process and includes representatives from the Victorian Landcare Council, Farm Tree and Landcare Association, Catchment Management Authorities and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP).
The Government recently highlighted its ongoing support for Landcare through the launch of the $2 million 2015-16 Victorian Landcare Grants in addition to the funding of Victoria’s 68 Landcare facilitator positions for a further four years.
Alongside a number of significant reforms the Victorian Government is reviewing the Landcare Program and Local Facilitator Initiative to ensure the best possible support for landcarers and community groups, which in turn, supports local environmental projects.
The contribution Landcare makes towards protecting and improving Victoria’s environment, along with the improved productivity of farms, and the many social benefits is well recognised in Australia and around the world.
The online survey and further information can be found at .
Quotes attributable to Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water Lisa Neville
“This review recognises the crucial role that volunteers play in Landcare groups. We need to make sure they are supported as effectively as possible so they can continue their valuable environmental work.”
“We are committed to strengthening and building Landcare to ensure it continues to deliver real, on the ground results and meets Victoria’s current and future environmental needs.”
“The review is needed to ensure the Landcare program addresses current and emerging needs of the Landcare community, and responds to opportunities and trends in the Landcare movement.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020