Bushfire-affected Adelaide Hills habitat to get helping hand

MEDIA RELEASE

Woodland bird species devastated by the Cudlee Creek bushfire will get a $1.2 million boost thanks to a new landscape scale habitat restoration program funded by the State and Federal governments

A large number of significant native trees were lost in the Cudlee Creek fire which provided valuable habitat for declining woodland bird species.

The Woodland Bird Resilience Program will safeguard future populations through habitat restoration to support these unique bird species.

The planting will commence immediately and run for two years. The project will provide for native tree and understorey seedlings, stock proof tree guards, labour costs, maintenance for plantings and capacity to engage landholders.

Minister for Environment Sussan Ley said the Federal Government is working collaboratively with the State Government to fast track wildlife and habitat recovery.

“Bushfires around the country have had devastating impacts on our natural environment including some of our most vulnerable species,” said Minister Ley.

“The Morrison Government has already committed $50 million for a Wildlife and Habitat Recovery Package and is pleased to be working closely with the South Australian Government to make sure support is going where it is needed.”

Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said the targeted funding would have significant benefits for the Adelaide Hills region.

“The South Australian Government has prioritised wildlife and habitat recovery after the devastating bushfires and has been working collaboratively with all levels of government as well as NGOs to deliver help in coordinated way,” said Minister Speirs.

“The Woodland Bird Resilience Program will not only restore habitat by planting trees, it will also boost agricultural outcomes through landscape resilience and support mental health outcomes by helping to recover the spectacular Adelaide Hills landscapes.

“The recovery for the environment at Cudlee Creek as well as other bushfire-affected regions won’t happen overnight and will take both time and plenty of hard work, but this extra funding from the Federal Government will help fast-track this recovery.”