- Local governments to share in almost $620,000 of Riverbank grants
- Significant funds allocated to the construction of a river wall at Northbank in Fremantle
- Cook Government calls for expressions of interest in next round of funding to help restore Swan Canning Riverpark
- State Government committed to protecting and restoring the environment
The Cook Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protect the Swan and Canning rivers by providing significant funds for rehabilitation and revival projects.
As part of the latest round of Riverbank funding, almost $620,000 will be shared by local governments in the Riverbank 2025-26 program, with more than $321,000 going towards the construction of a river wall at Northbank in the City of Fremantle.
It is among seven projects approved for funding as part of a program to which state governments have contributed more than $31 million for restoration projects over almost 25 years.
The ecological restoration of the Canning River in the City of Gosnells, foreshore restoration at Roley Pools Reserve in the City of Armadale and detailed designs for Hinds Reserve and Riverside Gardens in the City of Bayswater will also receive notable contributions this year.
The Cook Government is now calling for expressions of interest for the next round of funding, which opens today.
Local and State Government agencies managing land in the Swan Canning Riverpark are invited to apply. The funding applies to projects involving foreshore rehabilitation and protection activities, including revegetation, weed control and foreshore erosion management, as well as planning and design activities that support these outcomes.
Expressions of interest must be received by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions by 4pm, 21 April 2026. More information is available at dbca.wa.gov.au/riverbank .
The Riverbank funding program was introduced by the Gallop Labor Government in 2002 and any successful grant recipients must match State Government contributions. This has led to around $60 million being invested at more than 370 sites along the Swan and Canning rivers.
Comments attributed to the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:
"The Swan and Canning rivers are vibrant areas and home to a wide range of native plants and animals.
"The State Government has invested millions in helping to protect, rehabilitate and revive these areas through the Riverbank funding program and will continue to do so.
"These vital projects help address health and environmental issues, ensuring the Swan Canning Riverpark continues to thrive."
