Eligible organisations need to act quickly to get a share of the $22 million to be allocated to small community-based environmental projects by the Federal Government.
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Up to 20 local groups in Cowper will receive grants of from $2,500 to $20,000 for projects that address waste and litter reduction, protect native animals, address weeds and pest animals, restore and improve coasts, wetlands, riverbanks and waterways, or provide for greening of parks and urban areas.
Applicants must be legal entities to apply for support from the Communities Environment Program and these include community-based clubs like Lions, Rotary, scouts, guides, and sports clubs as well as indigenous organisations and environmental groups like Landcare, Bushcare and Coastcare. Schools and local government bodies can also apply.
Member for Cowper Luke Hartsuyker said his successor Patrick Conaghan will chair a local committee to make recommendations on Expressions of Interest for projects that will be forwarded to the government. Groups will then be invited to make a formal application in the middle of the year.
"Grants like these from the Federal Government have been a boon to many communities where a wide variety of worthwhile projects can and sometimes do languish through a simple lack of cash," Mr Hartsuyker said.
"The Federal Government has long recognised this problem and has a range of grant programs that fill some of that funding gap for projects that communities want to progress. This particular program, with its environmental focus, is a very targeted one.
"An emphasis on the environment is now a common attribute in communities and we are lucky in Cowper to have so many environmental assets still in good shape and relatively easily enhanced or protected.
"But there is a need for groups to act quickly. Expressions of Interest must be back to me by March 28 for consideration so I can forward them for final checks on eligibility."
Organisations wanting to express interest in funding can access the EOI form at www.lukehartsuyker.com.au/communities-environment-program/.
Groups wanting further information on the program should call Mr Hartsuyker's office on 02 6652 6233 or go to www.environment.gov.au/cep.
Expressions of Interest can be lodged with Mr Hartsuyker's office via scan and email to luke.hartsuyker.mp@aph.gov.au or by conventional mail to PO Box 2056, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450.
