$40 million land resource program to boost regional recovery

A revamped $40 million land resource grant program with further ongoing funding will improve the productivity of Queensland’s land resources while supporting regional jobs.

Resources Minister Scott Stewart said the new Natural Resource Recovery Program would generate jobs, increase the potential of the state’s natural resources and promote economic benefits in regional communities.

“Queensland’s natural land resources are a significant contributor to our agricultural, resources and tourism industries,” Mr Stewart said.

“Funding will go to regional delivery organisations to develop and implement projects that contribute to the state’s soil and vegetation values and demonstrate sustainable economic productivity of the land.

“We want to ensure our natural resources are nurtured for sustainable industry growth now and into the future.”

The program builds on the success of the Natural Resources Investment Program (NRIP), but with a renewed focus on sustainable land and regional economic prosperity.

Under NRIP, great success was achieved by best management practice projects that resulted in reduced grazing pressure, improved ground cover and increased soil stability by investing in initiatives such as:

• wet season spelling;
• rotational grazing;
• construction of additional watering points;
• fencing off degraded lands

Up to $10 million of the committed funds will be made available to natural resource management organisations across Queensland on a yearly basis, with the potential for other groups to work in collaboration on projects.

Mr Stewart said guaranteeing ongoing funding for the program would give regional organisations the certainty they needed to deliver long-term projects.

“We know from experience that funding community groups to improve our natural assets achieves tangible environmental and economic outcomes in our regional communities,” he said.

“For every dollar we’ve invested in our past NRIP programs, we’ve seen more than four dollars invested by others.

“The delivery organisations and community groups we’ve worked with in our past programs have supported more than 330 jobs located in 33 offices across regional Queensland.

“The new program will allow increased investment, and a better outcome for our regions.”

Applications for the new program funding is expected to open in the first half of 2022.

ENDS 

Media contact:    

Chris Lees – 0434 859 940