The Victorian Government's 2026 Landcare Grants Program will provide $3.58 million across Victoria to support projects that improve waterways and landscapes, restore native habitat, tackle weeds, build community knowledge and encourage people to work together to care for the environment.
Across the Goulburn Broken catchment, 24 community NRM and Landcare projects will share approximately $297,000 in funding. A further 13 groups will receive support grants of up to $500 each to help cover administration and operational costs.
Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority Chief Executive Officer Carl Walters congratulated the recipients of the 2026 grants.
"The Goulburn Broken catchment benefits from an exceptional community of Landcare professionals and volunteers whose commitment plays a critical role in protecting and restoring biodiversity, landscapes and engaging the community," Mr Walters said.
"The Victorian Government Landcare Grants provide essential support for local environment groups to undertake projects that improve environmental outcomes and build community resilience."
Projects funded through this year's program cover a wide range of environmental and community priorities.
Several groups will focus on biodiversity recovery following the 2026 bushfires, with Goomalibee Landcare, Creightons Creek Landcare Group, Euroa Arboretum, Longwood East Landcare Group and the Strathbogie Ranges Conservation Management Network each receiving funding to support recovery activities.
The Naring Landcare Group’s project aims to improve soil health, water cycling and farm productivity by increasing plant diversity and using biological amendments to enhance soil structure, fertility, carbon levels and biological activity. These activities will strengthen natural capital and improve landscape resilience.
The Sheep Pen Creek Land Management Group will investigate local populations of Lace Monitors and raise awareness of the important role large old trees and apex predators play in maintaining healthy landscapes.
Community education and youth engagement are also key priorities. Upper Goulburn Intrepid Landcare will connect young people with environmental stewardship and nature-based learning, helping build skills and strengthen connections with the natural environment. The Goulburn Murray Landcare Network and Upper Goulburn Landcare Network will also deliver projects that encourage environmental learning and community participation.
Other initiatives include biodiversity education, fire recovery projects, farm dam enhancement and community events celebrating the region's unique natural assets, including local fungi and wildlife.
Mr Walters said the grants help communities turn local ideas into practical action.
"We look forward to supporting groups through project delivery with the assistance of our Regional Landcare Coordinator and seeing the positive environmental and community outcomes these projects will achieve."
For more information about local Landcare and community NRM groups, and to view the full list of 2026 Victorian Landcare Grant recipients and funded projects, visit the Goulburn Broken CMA website.
To find out more about the Goulburn Broken CMA and its programs please visit www.gbcma.vic.gov.au or phone (03) 5822 7700.