The Allan Labor Government is supporting community groups to protect Port Phillip Bay’s iconic marine and coastal environment.
Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh today announced the latest round of the Port Phillip Bay Fund grants, with a $2.3 million investment to support a wide range of community groups that include not-for-profits, schools and Traditional Owner groups to deliver several projects to improve Port Phillip Bay’s health, habitats and wildlife.
Port Phillip Bay is home to over 10,000 species of marine life with its diverse habitats, including sea grass meadows, rocky reefs and sandy beaches, providing essential breeding and nursery grounds.
In addition to being one of Victoria’s most important ecosystems, Port Phillip Bay is a major tourist destination supporting recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, snorkelling and sailing.
Grant recipients include the Dromana Foreshore Committee of Management, with $13,585 for its Dromana Marine Coastal Environment and Community Engagement Project Stage 3. This project will include extensive weeding and revegetation at Latrobe Reserve and continued support for the Dromana Primary School’s Connecting to Country program.
The Nepean Conservation Group will receive $24,907 for coastal bushland works – which will improve the Bay’s natural ecosystems through habitat restoration between Portsea and Rye, with works taking place alongside the Mornington Peninsula Shire and Parks Victoria.
The Safety Beach Foreshore Landscape Committee will also receive $14,744 for its Coastal Erosion Mitigation Project Stage 3. The project will remove invasive weed species and vegetation and stabilise the heavily eroded coastal dunes.
This program delivers on the Allan Labor Government’s Port Phillip Bay Environmental Management Plan 2017–2027, ensuring that Port Phillip Bay remains healthy and resilient for generations to come.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos
“We're proud to support the dedicated volunteers and community groups who are passionate about protecting one of Victoria’s most treasured ecosystems.”
“This funding will help groups and researchers who are working to preserve and protect the Bay for years to come.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh
“Port Phillip Bay is iconic to Victoria, and we are dedicated to ensuring the long-term health of this precious natural asset so it can be enjoyed for generations to come.”
