Joint media release with the Hon Vicki Ward MP
More support will be provided for the environmental recovery of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, which was heavily impacted by the 2024-25 Western Victoria bushfires.
The Albanese and Allan Governments will provide more than $36 million in joint-funding to support the restoration and regeneration of the park's Aboriginal cultural heritage, environmental biodiversity and park infrastructure.
This investment will deliver the second phase of the Environmental Recovery Program, which is focused on rehabilitating bushfire affected areas of the national park through targeted medium-to long-term environmental recovery programs.
This package will support the protection and management of Aboriginal cultural heritage through self-determined recovery, planning and implementation of remediation works and post-event heritage evaluation in consultation with Traditional Owner groups.
Significant funding has also been allocated to restore bushfire affected campsites, walking trails, boardwalks and other visitor facilities to ensure the park remains a key attraction for visitors to the region.
It will also continue to support the recovery of native wildlife, including monitoring species to track their populations, assessment of burnt habitat and protection of wildlife as their habitat regenerates.
The funding is being provided under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The package includes funding to support sediment control and water quality sampling on public land and waterways to protect aquatic species.
The funding is in addition to the more than $5 million announced in March 2025 for an Early Environmental Recovery Package. The recovery works will be delivered by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and Parks Victoria.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain
"There are a number of sites of Aboriginal cultural significance within the Grampians, and the Albanese Government is committed to ensuring that these sites are restored.
"We're also focused on helping local businesses get back on their feet by restoring walking trails, campsites and facilities so we can get more visitors back to this beautiful park.
"The December bushfires have left scars in one of Victoria's most beloved areas and this funding will go to supporting both the land and its communities."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services and Natural Disaster Recovery Vicki Ward
"This is a sacred part of Victoria that I visited just last month and I look forward to seeing how this funding will continue to bring the Grampians (Gariewerd) National Park back to life after the devastating bushfires last summer."
"We know recovery can take years and we will always stand by the Grampians community every step of the way."
Quote attributable to Victorian Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos
"By restoring the national park, we are supporting the recovery of the local wildlife and environment as well as enticing visitors back to the area. Helping to put more money into the pockets of small businesses who rely on tourists for income."
