$4 million for regional coastal councils

Regional and outer metropolitan councils can now apply for funding to repair, conserve and enhance South Australia’s coastline with applications now open.

The grants, known as the Regional Coast Protection Fund, will provide $4 million funding over four years to help regional and outer metropolitan coastal councils secure and protect South Australia’s coast.

Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said South Australia’s coastline is the first defence against the changing climate and regional coastlines are at risk of erosion, flooding and sand dune drift, which are being exacerbated by rising sea levels.

“Many of the state’s regional coastal councils, community groups and businesses are already taking action to address the risk to their coastal areas, and these grants are to provide councils with practical support,” said Minister Speirs.

“We are also aware of the significant tourism and lifestyle benefits that our coastline has for our regional communities, so are investing in these areas to build resilience and to protect the amenity of the coast.

“The Marshall Liberal Government’s 2019-20 State Budget has a focus on practical action to deal with our changing climate which will improve environmental outcomes at the same time as growing our economy.

“Our government understands that for many regional councils the coast is at the heart of their towns and a healthy coastline can often lead to a thriving community.

“I encourage those keen to help repair, conserve and enhance their coastline to apply for funding.”

Funding of up to $1 million will be available over 2019/20.

Eligible councils can apply for funding for projects that address issues such as flood and erosion management, cliff stability, repair of storm-damaged coast protection structures and beach replenishment.

The $4 million fund forms part of the $52.4 million coastal funding over four years to improve both metropolitan and regional coasts.

The funding is in addition to the existing grants that are provided annually by the Coast Protection Board.

For more information and to apply visit the DEW coasts website.

Applications close on 9 September 2019.

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