Environmental groups receive funding from Council Levy

Thanks to the contributions from Sunshine Coast Council’s Environment Levy Partnership Funding Program, 22 community groups are set to receive a share of $635,500 annually over the next three years. This substantial financial backing will support the groups in their ongoing efforts to protect local wildlife and natural habitats.

The funding, sourced from ratepayer contributions, ensures that these groups can continue their essential work with greater confidence and capacity. Council Environment and Liveability joint portfolio Councillor Maria Suarez highlighted the critical role of these volunteers, noting that last year alone, 4,416 volunteers dedicated over 360,000 hours. This volunteer effort is valued at more than $15.5 million, demonstrating the significant impact of the Environment Levy.

This year’s funding will assist 19 continuing partnerships and introduce three new ones: Wildlife SEQ Inc, Rotary Club of Nambour Inc, and Coastal Community Native Nursery Inc. Established groups such as Wildlife Volunteers Association (WILVOS), Friends of Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Gardens, Wildlife SEQ Inc, Rotary Club of Nambour Inc and Coastal Community Native Nursery Inc are new to the Environment Levy Partnerships Funding program.

Returning partners include: Reef Check Foundation (Reef Check Australia), Night Eyes Association Inc, Wildlife Volunteers Association Incorporated (WILVOS), Friends of Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Gardens Inc., Petrie Creek Catchment Care Group Inc., Mooloolah River Waterwatch and Landcare, Mary River Catchment Coordination Association (Mary River Catchment Coordinating Committee), ECOllaboration Ltd, Barung Landcare Association Inc, Lake Baroon Catchment Care Group and Hinterland Bush Links will also benefit.

The funds are earmarked for operational expenses and activities that complement the Council’s own environmental conservation efforts.

For more details on the Council’s partnerships and grants programs, interested parties can visit the Sunshine Coast Council’s website and search “Environment-Levy-Partnerships”.

Barung Landcare's Gardens for Wildlife program will support group’s like Barung Landcare.