Media Releases

Member for Swan Hill, Peter Walsh, announced today that wildlife rescuers, shelter operators and foster carers can apply for grants of up to $5,000.
The grants, part of the Victorian Government’s $1.2 million Wildlife Rehabilitator Grants Program, are available to assist wildlife carers carry out their invaluable work with our native fauna.
“I urge wildlife carers to apply for the grants which will assist in caring for our sick and injured animals,” Mr Walsh said.
“Our wildlife rehabilitators, shelter operators and foster carers are outstandingly dedicated people.
“Most are volunteers who give freely of their time in the preservation of our precious native animals and these grants will assist in covering the cost of veterinary bills, feed, medicine, maintenance of enclosures and even training courses,” Mr Walsh said.
The Victorian Coalition Government has provided a four-year funding package to help cover the costs associated with caring for wildlife.
Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Ryan Smith, said that without the State’s dedicated wildlife shelter operators and wildlife foster carers some of our native wildlife would be left without much-needed support.
The Wildlife Rehabilitator Grants Program has also provided funding to support vital wildlife emergency response institutions including:
• $27,500 to Phillip Island Nature Park
• $40,000 to Zoos Victoria and
• $2,500 to the Dolphin Research Institute.
Application forms will be posted to all registered organisations and carers in the coming days. Application opened this week and close on Monday 5 March.
To find out more information about the wildlife rehabilitators program, go to www.dse.vic.gov.au or call 12 61 86.