Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG) welcomed the opportunity to participate in the National Landcare Program Phase Two review, report released 28 February, which shows positive outcomes for Australia’s environment and national resources while supporting the agricultural sector.
Phase two of the National Landcare Program, due to end mid 2023, provides $1.1 billion from the Australian Government to support practical environmental action, bringing together communities, Traditional Owners and land managers to deliver improved environmental outcomes.
BMRG CEO, Sheila Charlesworth, said the review report found the Landcare program is considered to be contributing to improved sustainable agriculture, environmental and biodiversity outcomes, and broader community benefits.
“As a natural resource management organisation working with local landholders, Traditional Owners and other partners, we have seen first-hand the positive tangible outcomes of National Landcare Program funding.
“The report highlights that phase two of the program has already achieved positive impact at a local, and often regional, scale. The broad focus, ability to get funding on the ground, and the long-term nature of the projects were noted as strengths of the program.
“We certainly welcome the acknowledgement of the efforts and achievements of everyone involved, and we congratulate all our partners in the Burnett Mary region. The report identifies opportunities to strengthen the program, and we look forward to continuing to work towards the best possible environmental, agricultural and community outcomes.
“With a focus on growing community and regional capacity and capability, and building on partnerships and achievements, we particularly look forward to establishing an Indigenous Protected Area in the region,” Ms Charlesworth said.
The report was released 28 February 2022 as part of a joint announcement by Minister for the Environment, Sussan Ley, and the Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, David Littleproud. The full report is available from the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environmenthttps://www.awe.gov.au/agriculture-land/land/national-landcare-program-phase2-review
