Green Links Grant Program

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Grants of up to $350,000 to support revegetation, habitat restoration, and projects enhancing Victorian urban waterways, water quality, and community green spaces for healthier environments.

Current status of program

CLOSED

To register your interest in future rounds or discuss alternative grant opportunities please contact us here.

What is the Green Links Grant Program?

The Green Links Grants Program, funded by the Victorian Government, is a targeted initiative aimed at protecting and revitalising Victoria’s urban waterways and surrounding green spaces. This program is part of a broader effort to enhance biodiversity, improve community access to natural areas, and address environmental challenges posed by urbanisation.

With a total of $2 million available in Round 2, the Green Links Grants Program focuses on revegetation and habitat restoration, supporting on-ground projects that contribute to healthier urban waterways, enhanced water quality, and enriched green spaces for the community.

Green Links Grant Program level of support

Grants

  • Minimum amount – $20,000
  • Maximum amount – $350,000

No co-contribution is required, but projects that demonstrate additional funding or in-kind support may receive favourable consideration during the assessment process.

Green Links Grant Program important dates

Green Links Grant Program objectives and outcomes

The program aims to achieve several outcomes by providing funding for projects focused on urban waterway conservation:

  • Enhance Biodiversity: Increase habitat and improve the condition of waterways through strategic revegetation efforts.
  • Improve Community Spaces: Enhance the aesthetic and recreational value of waterways, creating accessible and serene natural spaces.
  • Support Cultural Values: Collaborate with Traditional Owners to align waterway management practices with cultural and spiritual values, fostering long-term partnerships and sustainable stewardship of the land.

Projects and expenditure eligible for Green Links Grant Program support

Eligible projects must be based in urban waterway areas in Victoria and may include:

  • Site Preparation: Activities such as clearing non-native vegetation, soil preparation, and erosion control.
  • Planting and Seeding: Procurement and establishment of indigenous plants, seeds, and seedlings.
  • Habitat Restoration: Installation of nesting boxes, replacement of ground habitat, and other biodiversity improvements.
  • Fencing and Protection: Installation of fencing to protect sensitive areas from trampling and grazing.
  • Community Engagement: Projects that involve local communities, schools, and environmental groups in tree-planting events and other participatory activities.

Ineligible Expenditure

The program will not cover expenses related to:

  • Purchase of land or infrastructure development (e.g., major drainage works)
  • Routine maintenance (e.g., pest control activities)
  • Use of non-native vegetation in planting
  • Projects already planned and funded without expanding the project area
  • Feasibility studies or research activities
  • Recurrent staffing and operational costs, including rent and utilities
  • Projects located outside Victoria

See the guidelines for full details of projects and expenditure eligible for GLGP support.

Other Green Links Grant Program important details that you will need to know

To qualify for funding, organisations must be:

  • Community and Environmental Groups: Not-for-profit entities, such as Landcare and Coastcare groups, Friends of groups, Riverkeeper groups, and Conservation Management Networks.
  • Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs): Indigenous organisations focused on cultural and environmental conservation.
  • Educational Institutions: Schools with a focus on environmental and conservation activities.
  • Local and State Authorities: Local councils and land or water management authorities.

 

Applicants must also be financially solvent and hold adequate insurance, including public liability insurance of at least $10 million. If organisations are not incorporated or lack necessary insurance, they may partner with an eligible auspice organisation.

Applications will be assessed based on four main criteria, with each criterion weighted to reflect its importance:

  1. Need for the Project (20%)
    Projects must demonstrate a clear need, aligning with local environmental priorities, such as supporting high-value remnant vegetation, protecting riparian habitats, and benefiting communities facing urbanisation pressures. Projects should also align with existing landscape and waterway strategies, such as the Yarra Strategic Plan and Healthy Waterways Strategy.
  2. Project Deliverables (30%)
    Applicants must outline the specific outputs of the project, detailing the number of hectares to be revegetated, fencing installed, pest control measures, and planned community engagement events. Benefits such as improved biodiversity, connectivity, and community access should also be highlighted.
  3. Project Delivery and Management (35%)
    Applicants need to submit a comprehensive project plan outlining key activities, timelines, and governance structures. Projects must consider potential risks, including environmental hazards such as flooding and fire. Engagement with Traditional Owners and measures to ensure gender equity impacts must also be included.
  4. Financial Management and Value for Money (15%)
    Applicants must demonstrate cost-effectiveness, providing detailed budgets and justifications for expenses. Evidence of additional funding sources, in-kind support, or contributions from partner organisations should be included to show value for money.

 

Applicants must:

  • Read and understand the guidelines.
  • Ensure eligibility for the funding. Applicants that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be considered.
  • Provide complete information requirements.

 

Applicants should prepare the following documentation for submission:

  • Project Plan: Using the provided template, detail project goals, timelines, risks, and governance.
  • Budget: Include cost breakdowns and quotes for project expenses.
  • Supporting Documents: Obtain permissions from landowners, submit maps of project sites, and provide any additional plans or community strategies related to the project.

 

Applications are submitted via the DEECA web portal.

Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.

Green Links Grant Program resources

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