TERRI BUTLER MP
SHADOW MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER
SUSAN TEMPLEMAN MP
MEMBER FOR MACQUARIE
An Albanese Labor Government will invest in essential restoration projects along the Hawkesbury River in the wake of two years of devastating floods.
This $1 million commitment from Labor’s $200 million Urban Rivers and Catchments Program will support the Hawkesbury Environment Network (HEN) to carry out much-needed recovery and restoration works for the river and wetlands.
Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman said, “This investment will provide the opportunity for HEN to work with different organisations to help restore river areas and wetlands that were damaged by flooding.
“Even before the floods, these waterways and wetlands were subject to urban stressors like run-off, changes in land use – including increased development – and invasive weeds.
“Our area has been devastated by flooding on two separate occasions this year alone, in addition to the floods of 2021 and 2020.
“Consequently, the river, riverbanks, water and surrounding areas have been wiped out in many areas.”
HEN Chair Jocelyn Howden said the funding was very welcome.
“Hawkesbury Environment Network is overwhelmed by the possibilities for restoration and recovery in the Hawkesbury. We can only begin to imagine what we could achieve with this amazingly generous offer from our local member,” Ms Howden said.
Ms Templeman said, “We need to look after our waterways because they supply and filter water, provide habitat for biodiversity, store carbon and allow recreation for the local community, as well as providing resilience to natural hazards.
“HEN has worked tirelessly to help restore so many areas around our river, and I am very pleased to be able to give them a helping hand to continue their essential work for the community.”
Labor’s previously announced $200 million urban rivers and catchments investment will fund projects across the country to restore urban river systems, catchments, and wetlands.
Fixing up waterways and the catchment areas around them will improve water quality, will help improve habitat for animals, and deliver positive outcomes for nature and communities.
There is broad community support for the project and the Hawkesbury Environment Network will be able to work with other organisations and community members.
Only a Labor Government will restore Australia’s urban rivers and catchments.
