Environmental Restoration Through Advocacy - City of Gosnells
2024 NGAA Award Submission
The Canning and Southern Rivers, running through several local governments in Perth's South-East corridor, face serious threats from a range of issues. A significant amount of funding was identified as necessary to restore these rivers to full health, with $10 million being the estimated requirement. In response, a comprehensive management plan was developed, and the City of Gosnells, alongside local governments and landcare groups, successfully advocated for this funding from the Commonwealth Government. The advocacy campaign resulted in the full $10 million being committed.
What Makes This Project Unique?
Unlike typical projects where local governments work independently, this one stood out due to its collaborative approach. To secure the $10 million, the project involved:
- Partnering with local governments in Perth's South-East corridor to make this an advocacy priority for all.
- Collaborating with landcare groups for their expertise and volunteer support.
- Developing a clear funding proposal detailing how the $10 million would be used.
- Aligning the request with the Commonwealth Government’s environmental priorities.
- Launching the advocacy campaign at a key river site, with all partners present, to engage with politicians.
- Ensuring local governments and landcare groups continuously raised the importance of the campaign in meetings with politicians.
Advancing Best Practices in Growth Areas
This project is an example of successful collaborative advocacy, as it involved local governments and landcare groups from the South-East corridor of Perth. By aligning the project with federal environmental priorities, the City of Gosnells demonstrated how growth area councils can be effective partners in delivering federal goals. Nearly half of Australia’s threatened species live in urban areas, and the Albanese Government has committed to protecting them. This project provided a solution to improve the rivers and protect local ecosystems.
With federal funding, support from the State Government’s Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions, and involvement from local governments, landcare groups, volunteers, and Traditional Owners, the project showcases the power of collaboration.
Project Results
The advocacy campaign succeeded, with the Commonwealth Government committing the full $10 million. On February 20, 2024, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek, along with local MPs, announced the investment to protect and restore the Canning, Southern, and Wungong Rivers. The media release highlighted plans to improve water quality, protect local wildlife, control erosion, reduce sediment, remove weeds, and plant native vegetation.
How Will This Project Improve Growth Areas?
The Canning and Southern Rivers are under threat from reduced natural flow, climate change, erosion, and pollution. Outer suburbs, which connect urban and rural spaces, are ecologically sensitive. Residents enjoy access to nature and urban conveniences, but local governments must balance evolving land use with environmental protection. Restoring these rivers will enhance the quality of life for communities in the outer suburbs.
Healthy rivers provide recreational opportunities, foster a sense of community, and improve mental health. Additionally, by preparing the rivers to withstand severe weather events driven by climate change, the project will help protect communities and infrastructure. Finally, it will contribute to environmental resilience by supporting diverse ecosystems.
