The Andrews Labor Government is delivering a healthier Port Phillip Bay – benefiting Victorians and tourists, as well as protecting one of the state’s most important ecosystems.

The final round of the Port Phillip Bay Fund (PPBF) in now open, with $850,000 of funding available for projects which are contributing to the health of the Bay.

This round of the Fund will support volunteer-based community and environmental groups, indigenous groups, scouts, kindergartens and schools to play a greater role in improving the health of Port Phillip Bay and protect its rich and unique biodiversity.

Round 1 of the PPBF supported 36 projects and delivered more than 44,000 hours of volunteer effort across 95 partner groups and organisations to help protect the health of one of Victoria’s most important ecosystems.

Round 2 of the Fund supported 39 successful projects, including:

• the Yarra Riverkeeper Association, which has collaborated with over 40 community groups and organisations to collect and present catchment data on a single, accessible public site – The Yarra Catchment Atlas, and;
• the Western Waterways of the Wurundjeri project, which has facilitated four cross-cultural events for community groups, and will fence and revegetate a 300-metre length of shrubland and grassland next to the Maribyrnong River and Arundel Creek.

Funded by the proceeds of the lease of the Port of Melbourne, the $10 million PPBF was launched in November 2016 to support projects including: foreshore upgrades; dune stability works; water quality improvement works; amenity and wetland improvements.

Port Phillip Bay is the home to 10,000 marine plant and animal species, making it one of our most important ecosystems. In addition to providing valuable habitat, the Bay also supports recreational fishing and tourism, is the entrance to Australia’s busiest port, and has over 4.5 million people living and working in the catchment area.

The grants application period is open until 5pm on Wednesday 10 April. More information on the Port Phillip Bay Fund and applications can be made at: www.delwp.vic.gov.au/port-phillip-bay-fund

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“These grants are helping protect one of the city’s most treasured ecosystems – improving it for Victorians and tourists.”

“We’re investing $10 million over four years to help the community play a greater role in improving the health of Port Phillip Bay.”

“This is about taking the action needed to build a legacy that will benefit our Bay for years to come.”