The ACT Government will support the protection and improvement of local waterways through the new Healthy Waterways Community Grants Program.
The inaugural grant round will provide $120,000 in funding for practical, community-led leaf litter management projects that improve the health of our lakes, ponds, wetlands and creeks.
Minister for Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water Suzanne Orr said the grants will empower volunteers and organisations to join in and help make waterways in their neighbourhoods healthier through community action.
“Canberrans care deeply about their local environment, and these grants will support practical projects that help keep our waterways healthy with the community’s support,” Minister Orr said.
“Trees are a defining feature of our city, but when leaf litter accumulates in gutters, nature strips and other hard surfaces they can become a source of harmful water nutrients, which impacts the health of our waterways.
“While the Government works hard to manage leaf litter through street sweeping programs, gross pollutant traps and other innovative solutions through the Healthy Waterways program, the Canberra community can also play an important role.
“Whether it’s community events, education projects, volunteer activities or innovative new ideas, these new grants will support local solutions that keep Canberra’s waterways healthy,” said Minister Orr.
The program complements the ACT Government’s broader Healthy Waterways work, including street sweeping, the Lake Tuggeranong catchment plan, water-sensitive urban design and catchment management initiatives.
Funding is available through two streams:
- Community Action Grants from $2,000 to $10,000
- Impact Grants from $10,001 to $30,000.
Eligible applicants include community groups, school volunteer organisations, individuals and small organisations seeking to deliver projects that encourage improved leaf litter management and healthier waterways.
Applications close on Monday 23 November 2026. Information sessions, grant guidelines and application details are available on the Healthy Waterways Program webpage.
