Released 24/04/2020
Environmental works are being fast-tracked and new jobs have been created to undertake bushfire recovery works, catchment restoration and trail maintenance as part of the ACT Government’s ongoing COVID-19 stimulus.
Minister for the Environment and Heritage Mick Gentleman said the ACT Government was working to support Canberrans through the impacts of COVID-19 while protecting and restoring our environment.
“Responding to the spread of COVID-19 is one of the greatest challenges our city has ever faced. We are working together with Canberrans to create job opportunities and support local businesses through this difficult time,” Minister Gentleman said.
“The ACT Government is funding screwdriver-ready projects to repair and replace rural fences damaged by bushfire and undertake critical Lower Cotter Catchment restoration works.
“The ACT is still healing from the devastating Orroral Valley bushfire and this work will see boundary fences between Namadgi and rural properties rebuilt.
“Our stimulus has been designed with local contractors and suppliers in mind. The work will benefit small business owners that deliver agricultural services, along with local fencing businesses who will do the work and provide materials.
“To support land restoration and improve water quality in our Lower Cotter Catchment, staff and contractors will plant native seedlings, remove invasive weed infestations, and control soil erosion in targeted areas.
“In addition, 26 temporary jobs are being created in the ACT Parks and Conservation Service as part of our Jobs for Canberrans initiative announced on Monday.
“These roles will help with bushfire recovery efforts to make our parks and reserves safe for visitors to return after social distancing measures are eased.”
The 26 positions are comprised of:
- Six Ngunnawal Ranger positions to care for Country as part of the bushfire recovery program.
- Ten Ranger positions to support bushfire recovery and catchment restoration and to upgrade damaged or degraded tracks and trails across the ACT.
- Ten Field Officer positions to support bushfire recovery and catchment restoration and to upgrade damaged or degraded tracks and trails across the ACT.
More about the ACT Government’s COVID-19 stimulus package is at: www.covid19.act.gov.au/economic-support
More about fast-tracked projects is at: www.act.gov.au/fasttrack
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases