An Albanese Labor Government will help improve the health of Canberra’s waterways and boost resources for children learning about the importance of water quality, wetlands and biodiversity.

The $3.225 million commitment from Labor’s $200 million Urban Rivers and Catchment Program will support the work of hundreds of volunteers across Canberra, as well as provide for local employment.

Led by Landcare ACT in partnership with well-established Catchment Management Groups, Labor will allocate $2.775 million to fund revegetation, weed control and water flow management efforts across the Ginninderra, Molonglo and Southern ACT Catchments.

Labor’s pledge will also help support efforts to diversify and grow the existing volunteer base, including through increased engagement with Canberra’s youngest residents, and support First Nations people in caring for waterways.

Additionally, Labor will also dedicate $450,000 to fund work by the Woodlands and Wetlands Trust and ACT Parks and Conservation Service to remove weeds and revegetate the riparian zones along Jerrabomberra Creek.

The area hosts multiple education courses including the Young Ranger program and an early childhood education program for toddlers.

A part time staff member will also be employed to coordinate, support and deliver the project over three years, and ensure its success continues into the future.

These two projects are among the many to be funded by Labor across the country, helping to restore urban river systems, catchments and wetlands. Fixing up waterways and the catchment areas around them will improve water quality, help restore habitat for animals, and deliver positive outcomes for nature and communities.

Labor understands the importance of maintaining healthy waterways, and only an Albanese Labor Government will restore Australia’s urban rivers and catchments.