Extra funding to help wildlife rehabilitators
Up to $1 million will be allocated to help volunteer wildlife rehabilitators rescue and recover injured native animals affected by the current NSW bushfires and drought conditions.
This funding is in addition to the $4.05 million for wildlife rehabilitation under the NSW Government’s Koala Strategy.
Community rehabilitation groups and the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife can access the funds.
Around 100,000 animals are rescued annually in NSW and that number is quickly increasing due to environmental challenges such as bush fires and drought.
With more than 40 bush fires currently burning across NSW and the ongoing drought seeing an influx of injured animals, Environment Minister Matt Kean said the delivery of more funding is a priority.
“The wildlife rehabilitator sector contributes more than $27 million per annum in unpaid time and resources,” Mr Kean said.
“Our wildlife heroes need more support so they can keep doing what they do best – rehabilitating our sick and injured native animals.”