The Swan and Canning rivers and their major tributaries are iconic features of Perth’s landscape. They are prized for their natural values, recreational opportunities and cultural and social importance.

The State Government is committed to protecting and enhancing the health of the river system, supporting restoration projects undertaken by community volunteer groups through the Community Rivercare Program. Grant funds will be available for one year to enable on ground works by community groups. This program is administered by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA).

Projects are for one year only and will be implemented from 1 July 2025.  

Round 8 submissions now open

Grants of between $3,000 and $15,000 (ex GST) in total for the duration of the project will be provided to community volunteer groups to conserve the natural, cultural, and social amenity values of the rivers, tributaries and urban drains within the Swan Canning Catchment.

This will be achieved through projects that deliver:

• Habitat improvement for birds and/or other species dependent on waterways.
• Foreshore revegetation and weed control.
• Weed control to promote natural regeneration.
• Bank stabilisation to repair or prevent foreshore erosion.
• Water quality improvement.

Projects must be in the Swan Canning Catchment or other catchments that feed into the Swan and Canning rivers.

To date, the Community Rivercare Program has funded 89 projects resulting in the revegetation of foreshores and increased habitat for fish, native birds and other species dependent on waterways.

Closing MIDNIGHT Sunday 25 August 2024.