Rudd Labor Caring less for our Country

“...the environment has dropped off the Labor Government’s radar...” The Rudd Government’s announcement today of just $28.5 million for environmental projects under its Caring for our Country program disadvantages small community groups and proves the environment has dropped off the Labor Government’s radar, according to Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Water Resources and Conservation, Senator Fiona Nash. “I congratulate the 137 successful applicants, but we should not forget the many more smaller community organisations that have missed out because of Labor changes,” Senator Nash said. “The administration of Caring for our Country is a nightmare, particularly for local community groups.” “Not only are they now forced to apply online only, they have to compete with universities, the CSIRO and other government departments and agencies for grants from a shrinking funding pool.”“ Caring for our Country amalgamated previously separate programs such as Landcare, grants to Catchment Management bodies and the EnviroFund. “Under Rudd Labor, Landcare has lost 20 per cent of its funding, Catchment Management bodies have lost 40 per cent and the EnviroFund was abolished altogether.” “The message Shadow Environment Minister Greg Hunt and I get as we travel around regional Australian communities is that the Rudd Government takes plenty of advice from bureaucrats in Canberra, but doesn't listen to people in the regions.” “These communities demand that Labor reinstate full funding for catchment management bodies and Landcare groups so work can continue in protecting our natural environment, Senator Nash concluded. Contact: Murray Lees, media adviser, 0447 34 00 25

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