MORE FUNDING AND BETTER TOOLS FOR INJURED WILDLIFE

The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring injured wildlife get the help they need, with a new online help tool and almost $170,000 in funding for rehabilitators.

Member for Yuroke Ros Spence today has announced shelter operators and foster carers in Mickleham have been awarded $600 in funding, thanks to the Labor Government’s Wildlife Rehabilitator Grants.

The Wildlife Rehabilitator Grants help with the costs associated with caring for Victoria’s diverse wildlife.

Locally this funding will support shelter operator Donna De Maria and her work within the community.

The program supports wildlife rehabilitators buy equipment and infrastructure to assist with the operation of their facilities and to attend appropriate training.

The funding comes as Minister for Environment Lily D’Ambrosio launched Help for Injured Wildlife, a new tool that connects Victorians with volunteers and professionals who can assist animals when they are in trouble.

The new online tool provides information about wildlife rehabilitators, rescue organisations and veterinarians in local areas who can care for the type of animal in need of help, such as a kangaroo or koala.

The tool is smartphone compatible and includes advice for first responders according to the type of animal and the injury it appears to have sustained.

Victoria has a network of authorised and dedicated volunteers who provide an essential service helping wildlife found in distress or pain.

For more information on the Help for Injured Wildlife tool and Wildlife Rehabilitator Grants visit wildlife.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Member for Yuroke Ros Spence

“Our wildlife rehabilitators are at the frontline in protecting Victoria’s native animals and this funding gives them the support they deserve.”

“We’re giving people in our community the tools and funding they need to protect our local environment.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“This tool will make it easier and faster for injured animals to get the help they need, anywhere in Victoria.”

“Our Wildlife Rehabilitator Grants are supporting the volunteers who house, feed and care for our wildlife when they need it most.”