$600,000 in coastal grants now available

• Grants available to improve the amenity and condition of WA's coastline

• Applicants can apply for up to $50,000 per project 

Applications are now open for the State Government's 2015-16 Coastwest grants and Coastal Management Plan Assistance Program grants.

Planning Minister John Day said $600,000 was available for coastal managers and community groups undertaking initiatives aimed at the protection and management of Western Australia's coastlines.

"Through these grant programs we can help to overcome the challenges facing WA's coast including population growth, competing uses and rising sea levels," Mr Day said.

"The programs also support the implementation of State Planning Policy 2.6 State Coastal Planning, which guides land use and development along the State's coastline."

Grants are available to improve the amenity and condition of coastlines, promote the sustainable development with recreational and tourism use, and protect coastal biodiversity and water quality.

The Coastal Management Plan Assistance Program provides funding to coastal land managers, primarily local government authorities, to develop strategies that balance competing land uses and plan appropriately for coastal hazards and risks.

Coastwest grants are provided to coastal managers and community groups working in partnership to manage and enhance WA's coastline.

"The Government's continuing commitment to supporting coastal projects reflects the importance of good planning and management along our highly valued coastline," the Minister said.

Fact File

• Coastal Management Plan Assistance Program applications close at 12pm, April 1, 2016

• Coastwest grant applications close at 12pm, April 8, 2016

• Since inception, about 700 projects worth more than $16 million have been funded through Coastwest and the Coastal Management Plan Assistance Program

• For more information, visit http://www.planning.wa.gov.au 

Minister's office - 6552 6200