Young people in the Banks electorate will be among the first 17 to 24 year olds to join the Australian Government’s Green Army and become part of the largest environmental movement in Australia’s history.
Federal Member for Banks David Coleman MP joined the Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Environment Minister Greg Hunt at Carss Bush Park, Sydney to officially launch the Green Army.
“The first round of Green Army projects is set to get underway in the coming weeks and I’m pleased to announce Banks will be one of the first to host a Green Army project team,” Mr Coleman said.
“Local young people will now have the opportunity to be a part of one of the Government’s major environmental initiatives and help our community deliver important local conservation outcomes.”
The Green Army will join a local Bushcare team to undertake regeneration works at Lime Kiln Bay Wetlands. The teams will work together to improve the water quality, biodiversity and resilience of the Wetlands.
A range of works will be conducted including weeding and revegetation. The project aims to improve the health of the wetlands, increase community engagement and raise awareness of stormwater management and conservation issues.
Young Australians interested in joining the Green Army can apply through the appointed Service Providers for each state and territory. Contact details for Service Providers are available from www.environment.gov.au/green-army
“The Green Army provides opportunities for young Australians aged 17-24 years to gain training and experience in environmental and heritage conservation fields and explore careers in conservation management, while participating in projects that generate real benefits for the Australian environment,” Mr Coleman said.
“Participants will receive a Green Army allowance for the duration of their project. Participants will also be supported to obtain Certificate I or II qualifications or nationally endorsed skills set to help them prepare for the workforce or improve their career opportunities.”
With $525 million committed over four years, the programme will encourage practical, grassroots action to support local environment and heritage conservation projects across Australia and provide training to 15,000 young Australians by 2018. This investment in the Green Army will bring the Government’s total investment in natural resource management to more than $2 billion over four years.