A Fresh Start for Queensland: Crisafulli Government expands Natural Resource Management
- Crisafulli Government expands Natural Resource Management funding to boost biodiversity programs.
- $117.84 million will be available over the next four years for the expansion to ensure the protection of our natural assets for generations to come.
- The NRM Expansion Program is part of the Crisafulli Government's 100 Day Plan.
The Crisafulli Government has delivered a major boost to on-ground land, water and biodiversity programs across Queensland, with $117.84 million funding.
The Crisafulli Government is partnering with National Resource Management Regions Queensland to deliver projects across the State over the coming four years.
The funding delivers on a key commitment from the Crisafulli Government's 100 Day Plan and includes projects that improve land and soil condition, protect and enhance biodiversity and ensure healthy waters across Queensland.
The program delivers a Fresh Start for Queensland and stands in contrast to the former Labor Government which had a history of leaving Natural Resource Management groups high and dry.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the Crisafulli Government would continue to work with NRM Regions Queensland to expand the NRM investment through regional projects.
"Regional Natural Resource Management organisations have a proven track record to deliver practical, on-the-ground solutions for managing our land, soil, water and biodiversity," Minister Last said.
"Landowners know all too well that Queensland is a land of extreme droughts, floods and increasing threats, and the Crisafulli Government is committed to protecting our natural assets for generations to come.
"I'm excited about the opportunity to partner with NRM Regions Queensland on this strategic investment which will support landholders in regional Queensland.
"This funding injection, delivered within the Crisafulli Government's first 100 days, shows our commitment to working with the experts on the ground to get the best outcomes for Queensland's environment and economy."
Member for Thuringowa Natalie Marr said the funding would protect crucial areas of biodiversity.
"These on-the-ground programs delivered through regional Natural Resource Management organisations will enhance the liveability and productivity of our towns and cities," Ms Marr said.
Member for Mundingburra Janelle Poole said the partnership would help safeguard Queensland's natural environment.
"The Crisafulli Government is taking real action to protect our environment, working with local experts to deliver the best outcomes," Ms Poole said.
Member for Townsville Adam Baillie said the agreement would deliver strong environmental benefits for future generations.
"We are working with local landholders to support practical outcomes to manage our region's soil, water and biodiversity," Mr Baillie said.
NRM Regions Queensland CEO Chris Norman said member organisations played a vital role in regional and remote Queensland, delivering outcomes for conservation as well as the economy.
"To ensure we protect our precious landscapes while also producing food and fibre for a growing population, we must work together, we must think strategically and we must invest appropriately," Mr Norman said.
"So, we're thrilled to be working alongside the Crisafulli Government to deliver big outcomes for our environment and agriculture through the new Natural Resource Management Program.
"This statewide program of activity will have a huge impact on our threatened species, on agricultural landscapes, on rivers, waterways and coasts, on pest plants and animals, on Culture and Country and on job creation in the natural resource management sector."
CEO of Townsville-based regional NRM organisation NQ Dry Tropics Scott Crawford said the new funding will have a positive impact on regional landscapes and on the communities who rely on them for food, recreation, lifestyle and their economic benefit.
"We hope to use our share of the funding on a variety of activities such as supporting Indigenous Land and Sea Rangers, controlling invasive species, improve grazing land management and restoring high-priority habitats," Mr Crawford said.
"We have strong networks on-the-ground and use the best available science to manage our land, water and biodiversity assets across the state."
