The Andrews Labor Government is helping community groups protect the future of Victoria’s biodiversity.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio today announced $2 million for 2018 Community & Volunteer Action Grants, and $116,000 for 2018 Crowdfunding Grants under the Biodiversity On-ground Action Initiative.

Through the program, grants of up to $50,000 are available to help communities continue the valuable work they’re already doing to protect and expand habitats for Victoria’s native plants and animals on public and private land.

In 2017, Community & Volunteer Action Grants funded 110 community projects totalling $4 million.

Expressions of interest are also being sought from groups interested in developing their crowdfunding, social media and marketing skills through free workshops.

Grants up to $2,000 are available to develop crowdfunding campaigns that raise funds for threatened species and biodiversity projects in Victoria. The Labor Government will match any of these campaigns that successfully reach their crowdfunding target, up to $25,000.

The grants are part of the Labor Government’s $86.3 million investment to protect Victoria’s environment.

To find out more or to apply for a grant visit environment.vic.gov.au/biodiversity/biodiversity-on-ground-action.

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

“We’re delivering our ambitious environmental agenda to better protect our natural environment.”

“These grants go a long way towards helping hard working and dedicated community groups care for the environment.”