Local coastal environments are set to benefit from a $6 million investment under a re-elected coalition government.
The funding will go towards projects to further protect and restore the region’s coastal environments of Bells Beach, the Great Ocean Road and the Otways.
The coalition announced the multi-million dollar investment on Wednesday ahead of the Federal Election this Saturday.
In a joint statement with Environment Minister Melissa Price, Ms Henderson said the funding is important for the ‘iconic, heritage-listed coastal area’.
“(It) demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the protection of Victoria’s environment and heritage,” she said.
The funding will be available to local councils, indigenous organisations and volunteer groups to deliver projects that protect native plants, wildlife and the coastal environment.
Ms Henderson said the community would have “a voice” in developing plans for the region.
“Community consultation will be an essential part of delivering greater environmental protection,” she said.
Labor also pledged $3 million for the protection of Victoria’s coastal “treasures” on the same day.
Both parties suggested funding would explore the potential of the Great Ocean Road becoming a national park and the Twelve Apostles featuring on World Heritage list.
The coalition also pledged $1.5 million toward protecting the Great Ocean Road and Bellarine dunes from erosion earlier this month.
The Environment Restoration Fund announced in the 2019-20 Budget will fund both of the coalition’s projects.
