NSW Landcare has received a $15 million boost from state government, providing for up to 60 new positions at the organisation across four years.
Primary Industries, Lands and Water Minister Niall Blair announced details of the $15m NSW Local Landcare Co-ordinators Initiative, which is designed to provide a lift to Landcare volunteers across the state.
The move will go some way to offsetting Landcare NSW's funding downgrade in the previous federal budget, which stripped $483.8m from the body.
The NSW Local Landcare Co-ordinators Initiative, a joint initiative of Landcare NSW and state government, was set up to deliver local networks of co-ordinators to increase the effectiveness of the Landcare's work.
"Prior to the election we said we would provide $15 million to support Landcare in the next four years. I am proud to say this announcement delivers on that commitment," Mr Blair said.
"This program has been designed to build the capacity of local Landcare groups, with the majority of the funds going towards employing more people on the ground, dedicated to improving management of our natural resources."
Mr Blair said a centralised support team would provide statewide co-ordination to increase the activity and effectiveness of the Landcare network.
A Local Land Services and Landcare NSW joint management committee will oversee the program and a Landcare Future Fund Initiative will be established to pursue options for Landcare's future financial sustainability.
Online applications from organisations interested in hosting a local Landcare co-ordinator within their community will open September 14.