Flagship Grants Open For Coastal Fisheries

The NSW Government’s Flagship Fish Habitat Grants program, which offers up to $400,000 per year to undertake projects that improve habitats to enhance and sustain coastal fish populations in NSW, is now open.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch said the Flagship Grants program seeks to target larger scale projects, which require higher levels of funding assistance, and will benefit recreational fishers by enhancing fish habitats.

“These grants offer a rare opportunity for regional fishing clubs, local and state government agencies and non-government organisations to improve fish habitats, water quality and fish passage at a large scale or in challenging environments within our local creek, river or estuary,” Mr Crouch said.

“Our coastal catchments and waterways have been hit hard by extreme natural events in recent years. This has highlighted the need for assistance to give fish stocks the best chance to survive and thrive.

“Funded by the Recreational Fishing Trust, this program is another excellent example of how recreational fishing fees are helping to support and improve fisheries in NSW.

Minister for Agriculture, Dugald Saunders said the Flagship Grants program builds on the existing Habitat Action Grants program.

“I am excited to support funding that provides local organisations the tools to safeguard and enhance their local fish habitats and recreational fisheries,” Mr Saunders said.

"Thanks to this grant program, over $2 million has already been provided by the NSW Government to successful applicants to initiate and progress fish habitat rehabilitation projects.

“Examples of previous successful projects include erosion management in the Nambucca and Tweed rivers and development of remediation options at Clybucca Wetlands on the mid north coast.”

Applications close Friday 4 November.

For more information about the program and to apply, visit:https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/habitat/rehabilitating/ahr-grants-program/flagship-fish-eoi.