The Coalition Government is delivering an investment of $7.5 million to New South Wales as part of its commitment to ensuring environmental water assets, native fish stocks and the sustainability of Basin communities.

Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia Keith Pitt said the funding will deliver the important Fencing Northern Basin Riverbanks Program.
“The Liberal-Nationals Government is committed to supporting regional communities by delivering on-ground outcomes that create jobs in Basin communities and improve the health of northern rivers,” Minister Pitt said.

“The $7.5 million provided to New South Wales through the Fencing Northern Basin Riverbanks Program allows for investment in practical measures to restore degraded riverbanks.”

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the funding will bring real benefits to the northern reaches of his electorate.

“The program will fund installation of new fencing along Macintyre, Gwydir and Dumaresq river reaches to control stock access to riverbanks, undertake weed removal and improve fish habitat through re-snagging activities,” Mr Joyce said.

“Measures like fencing can prevent stock losses during flood and direct stock to better off-stream drinking water while supporting the ecosystem along riverbanks.

“Improving water quality—especially during low-flow periods—is also going to help our local river systems better support our native fish, our farmers and our communities.
 
“Funding programs that allow for on-ground partnerships with landholders are an important part of our Government’s continuing support for river stewardship by regional communities.”

An expression of interest process run by the NSW Local Land Services is currently underway. Due to the high level of participation, the first round of expressions of interest has been extended until November 2021.
 
For more information on the Fencing Northern Riverbank Program visit Fencing Northern Basin Riverbanks Program - Website - Local Land Services (nsw.gov.au) 

(ENDS)