TANYA PLIBERSEK MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR SYDNEY

GED KEARNEY MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR COOPER

PETER KHALIL MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR WILLS

LABOR TO INVEST ALMOST $3 MILLION TO IMPROVE MELBOURNE’S ENVIRONMENT

A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will invest almost $3 million in six projects to improve the health of the local environment in Cooper and Wills for the native species and communities that rely on it.

This election commitment will build on the Albanese Government’s very successful Urban Rivers program that has funded over 100 projects to clean up local rivers and waterways and improve much-needed green spaces in our cities and suburbs, including in Cooper and Wills.

Nearly half of all nationally listed threatened animals and a quarter of our threatened plants are in urban areas. Their survival relies on healthy rivers, creeks, wetlands and estuaries. That’s why projects like this are so important.

Projects in Cooper and Wills that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will invest in include:

• $1.2 million for Merri-Bek City Council to increase vegetation along creek corridors and improve stormwater retention along Merri Creek near the Coburg North Sports Hub.
• $700,000 for the Merri Creek Management Committee to enhance the ecological health of Merri Creek by removing litter, restoring degraded habitat, and reintroducing native vegetation.
• $700,000 for the Darebin Creek Management Committee to continue habitat restoration including installation of nest boxes for sugar gliders and native birds, and fish hotels for small native fish.
• $215,000 the Friends of Edwardes Lake to install a litter trap at Edgars Creek Wetlands, install perches for waterfowl and make it easier for locals to bird watch.
• $50,000 for Yarra City Council to revegetate Clifton Hill and Alphington along the Yarra River (Birrarung).
• $30,000 for Parks Victoria to better protect the grey-headed flying fox colony at Yarra Bend Park.

This builds on the Government’s other investments to better protect our environment, including over $550 million to better protect threatened plants and animals and tackle invasive pests. We’ve also invested $200 million in over 100 projects to clean up rivers and waterways in urban areas.

Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles. 

Quotes attributable to the Federal Member for Sydney, Tanya Plibersek:

“We know Australians care deeply about nature and want to do their bit to protect the environment for their kids and grandkids.

“These projects mean we’ll be able to deliver vital environmental restoration work across Cooper and Wills.

“We’ve seen the real impact projects like this we’ve already support through our Urban Rivers program has had for nature and communities, with projects underway including vegetation along Diamond Creek in Eltham North, restoration of Moonee Ponds Creek and transformation of habitat on Merri Creek and Darebin Creek.

“After a decade of environmental vandalism by the Liberals and Nationals, Labor has made record investments to undo the damage done.

“We’ve protected an extra 100 million hectares of Australian ocean and bush, approved enough renewable energy to power more than 10 million homes and increased recycling capacity by over 1 million tonnes a year. We’re also investing more than half a billion dollars to save our native plants and animals from extinction.

“The choice at the election couldn’t be clearer. Labor, who will protect nature, fund essential science, invest in threatened species and act on climate change. Or the climate deniers and wreckers of the Liberal and National parties who haven’t made a single commitment that would help improve nature.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Cooper, Ged Kearney:

“The people of Cooper love their local environment. Whether it’s bushwalking along the Merri, strolling along Edwardes Lake, birdwatching along Darebin River, or volunteering to care for our wildlife — this community shows up for nature.

“These projects are about protecting what makes this area so special. They’ll restore habitats, boost climate resilience, and create beautiful, healthy places for everyone to enjoy — now and for generations to come.

“We have so many incredible volunteer groups across Cooper that do integral work protecting our local environment and waterways.

“I’m so proud to be part of a government that listens to local communities and takes bold action to protect our urban environment.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Wills, Peter Khalil:

“This election commitment is about protecting what makes Wills such a beautiful place to live.

“Merri Creek is loved by locals – whether they’re going for a walk, catching up with loved ones, or working to conserve the Creek for future generations.

“This project will help restore and protect vital habitats and make the Creek more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

“It’s a big win for our environment, and for everyone who loves spending time in our green spaces and waterways.

“It means so much to be a part of a government that doesn’t just talk about environmental conservation – but is out here funding the projects at the local level which will protect and strengthen natural environments for generations to come.”

TUESDAY, 15 APRIL 2024

MEDIA CONTACT:

Assistant Minister Kearney: Isabella Tilley  0414 894 040

02 6120 0805