Thursday 10 August 2023

FUNDING BOOST FOR WILDLIFE RESCUE VOLUNTEERS

The Andrews Labor Government is backing Victoria’s wildlife rescue volunteers so that our sick, injured and orphaned animals get the support they need.

Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced that applications for the 2023 Wildlife Rehabilitator Grants are now open for wildlife shelter operators and foster carers to access grants of up to $3,000.

The grants will help volunteer wildlife rehabilitators continue to care for thousands of native animals every year including kangaroos, koalas, possums, wombats, birds and reptiles.

Last year more than 100 wildlife carers and shelters across Victoria received the grants, helping to fund wildlife enclosures, medication, feed, rescue equipment and veterinary fees.

Since 2015, the Government has invested $5.2 million to support the work of, foster carers, authorised wildlife shelter operators and key wildlife organisations.

The funding of our wildlife volunteers is underpinned by the Andrews Labor Government’s Biodiversity 2037 strategy, a record investment of $582 million since 2014 – the biggest investment into protecting biodiversity and environment in our state’s history.

To learn more about the Wildlife Rehabilitator Grants and to submit an application, visit wildlife.vic.gov.au/grants/wildlife-rehabilitator-grants.

Applications close at 3:30pm on 15 September 2023.

Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes

“These grants are about helping the many dedicated volunteers who house, feed and care for our precious wildlife when they need it most.”