A community group, individual, industry or local government may already own a property with significant conservation value that they would like nominally included as part of the reserve system. In these cases, NRS funding can be applied towards establishing a formal protected area through gazettal of the property or entering into a nature conservation covenant agreement. We can assist both government agencies and community groups with the direct costs of purchase of suitable properties, associated legal and valuation costs, and management of immediate threats to new protected areas. Costs directly associated with formal protection such as those incurred as a result of gazettal of the property or entering into a nature conservation covenant agreement can also be assisted. Proponents will need to supply at least one third of the costs of the acquisition and cover the costs of all ongoing management.
Local government is a key stakeholder in regional planning.
The National Reserve System Program invites the involvement of local government in the purchase or acquisition of properties for inclusion in the NRS, particularly where incentives for covenants and rate relief are important factors in facilitating such acquisitions. We are aware that many Indigenous Australians hold a wealth of information and expertise about landscapes with which they have been associated for tens of thousands of years. Applications must be made on the New Project Application Form. This form, and the accompanying guide can be found at the Natural Heritage Trust web site. Please refer to this web site for application closing dates.