Local community organisations will be able to access federal money to plant trees under a new program celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
Running for three years from 2021-24, the Planting Trees for the Queen’s Jubilee program will provide up to $15.1 million of grant funding to eligible groups and organisations for community-based tree plantings.
Each of Australia’s 151 federal electorates will receive funding of up to $100,000 that can be allocated to successful applications. A maximum of 10 projects will be funded in each electorate ranging from $2,500 to $20,000.
In consultation with their communities, MPs will identify potential applicants and projects in their electorate and invite them to apply for a grant. Invited applications will be assessed against the program’s eligibility criteria through a closed non-competitive process.
The program’s focus will be on planting regionally appropriate species that enhance the tree canopy and leave a legacy in the form of trees that can be enjoyed by all Australians into the future.
Since ascending the throne in 1952, the Queen has visited Australia 16 times, and on many of these visits has planted trees at community events and ceremonies.
The Queen is said to have planted about 1500 trees around the world during her 70 years on the throne, leaving a long-lasting reminder of her visits.
Applicants are invited to approach their local MP and lodge their applications from 11 March.