Victorian families will be able to enjoy our state’s environment for generations to come, with new investments
to address climate change and protect our natural habitat.

The Victorian Budget 2018/19 provides $70.6 million for Parks Victoria, to improve the management of our
state’s extensive public parks network, and the services provided to visitors. The funding will also secure an
extra 130 park ranger positions in regional Victoria.

The transformation of the former Olinda golf course into the new Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden will receive $2.1 million in further funding to build picnic areas and a sports oval, as well as create open space.

The Andrews Labor Government will provide $3 million to protect the Helmeted Honeyeater and Leadbeater’s Possum populations and their natural habitat, with habitat restoration at key sites in the Yellingbo area, including the conservation reserve.

Captive breeding programs will also be introduced for Helmeted Honeyeaters, protecting the future of Victoria’s bird emblem.

$1 million will go towards our fight against climate change, ensuring critical emissions reduction targets are met across government sectors including electricity, land, industry, agriculture and transport.

The Labor Government will also provide $4.8 million to identify and protect locations in Victoria’s South West that are vulnerable to climate change, addressing a key priority identified by the Barwon Regional Assembly.

The Budget also provides $8.3 million to help protect and manage our beaches, by continuing the Port Phillip Bay Beaches Renourishment Program and developing a Port Phillip Bay Improvement Plan to improve water quality and marine biodiversity.

The Budget also includes $1.2 million for an air quality strategy, which will provide a comprehensive plan to improve air quality across our state.

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

“Thousands of tourists visit our state every year to experience our unique environment. With this investment, not only are we preserving Victoria’s natural habitat, we’re backing Victorian jobs.”

“We will keep protecting our beaches from erosion and the impact of climate change, and delivering on our ambitious renewable energy targets.”