The new Native Forestry Community Advisory Group will advise on projects seeking financial assistance through the $4 million Community Small Grants Fund.
Through the fund, community groups, organisations and small businesses impacted by the end of native forestry logging will be able to apply for grants of up to $100,000.
The competitive grants will be awarded to selected projects that stimulate the local economy and increase the region's liveability.
The members of the advisory group were chosen from an expressions of interest process, which called for applications from communities with links to the native forest industry.
Their in-depth local knowledge will help them to provide advice on the projects that will receive grants.
The five members of the advisory group are:
- Nicola Sheridan
- Jayde Darin
- Sean Tysoe
- Belinda Meehan
- Marilyn Morgan
Chaired by the local member for Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie, the advisory group will support Forestry Minister Dave Kelly in reviewing and recommending projects seeking financial assistance through the Community Small Grants Fund.
Applications for the Community Small Grants Fund will open on 6 February 2023.
The fund is part of the Industry and community development programs, which are the third and final pillar of the Western Australian Government's $80 million Native Forestry Transition Plan.
The plan has been developed to support affected workers and businesses, drive further diversification of local economies and assist in identifying and securing sustainable job opportunities.
Image: Four of the Native Forestry Community Advisory Group members with Jane Kelsbie MLA, Chair (second left) and WA Premier Mark McGowan and Forestry Minister Dave Kelly (both in centre).
