NSW Labor Leader Michael Daley MP (Front row 2nd from left) and

Andrew Zbik - Labor Candidate for Lane Cove (Front row third from left) in Gladesville on Thursday.

Michael Daley and Labor will invest $32.5 million in 3,000 Landcare, Bushcare and Rivercare groups across the length and breadth of NSW.

Labor’s commitment will double current funding and enable the organisation to deploy more front line and regional co-ordinators to assist volunteer groups with on ground works, resourcing, strategy and securing other partnerships.

“The 60,000 volunteers that make up Landcare NSW do a fantastic job in caring for our country – from rehabilitation and addressing salinity and soil erosion, to weed control improving the water quality of our creeks and rivers  - but they need the ongoing support of Government” Mr Daley said.

Labor Primary Industries spokesperson Shadow Primary Industries Minister, Mick Veitch said: “This funding is $10 million more than the Berejikilian Government’s offer,  doubles the existing capacity of Landcare in NSW, and will put more local and regional coordinators on the ground where they are needed most.”

Landcare NSW also acts as an umbrella group for a range of volunteer groups including Rivercare and Dunecare. It takes a community-based approach to managing and protecting natural resources –conserving our environment, creating more productive and sustainable farms,  and helping build more cohesive and resilient communities.

A recent report commissioned by Landcare NSW suggested the value of their work across the state was worth conservatively $500 million per annum.

“Labor is focused on giving farmers a fair go, that’s why, we have no hesitation in giving Landcare the support it needs,” Labor Candidate for Lane Cove, Andrew Zbik said.

“The additional funding will not only deliver environmental benefits, but turn part time roles in the regions into full time jobs - boosting capacity, strengthening partnerships and growing skills within the organisation.”

“Funding will also contribute towards the professional development of coordinators and the improvement of corporate governance for board members.”