By Gladys Barreta
Young people who want to learn and care for Victoria’s biodiversity and natural environment are now eligible to apply for the Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grant.
Schools, Scouts, Girl Guides, youth groups, junior Landcare groups in Victoria, and cross-border schools with Victorian students are encouraged to apply.
Eligible applicants can apply for up to $5,000 to assist them with biodiversity projects and activities.
Funding is available for projects that engage young people in activities under two focus areas: biodiversity-focused education activities and biodiversity-focused on-ground projects.
Previous grant recipients, the Melton Wildflower Girl Guides, obtained a grant to help implement their project, Helping Grow Melton Botanic Garden, raising awareness and educating the Girl Guides on numerous topics relevant to the natural environment, including identifying locations and ideal habitats of local native fauna.
The project encompassed planting suitable indigenous vegetation, including shrubs, herbs, grasses, and a few trees.
Unit leader and acting district manager for Melton district, Kerry Martin, said the Melton Girl Guides will consider applying for the grant this year, as it will prove to be beneficial for the girls’ learning.
“We have already done the Great Western Water program, which made the girls think about where the water comes from and its sustainability,” she said.
“We are always doing things to educate ourselves about the environment like clean up Australia day and other community events.
“We will consider applying for the grant to provide girls a pathway into learning about the environment and Victoria’s biodiversity.”
In 2025, a total funding of $450,000 has been provided for the Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants.
Login or register to start your grant application on the Landcare Australia Grants Site: landcareaustralia.smartygrants.com.au/vjlcbg25
