The Queensland Government has initiated the Flying-Fox Roost Management Local Government Grant Program to address community concerns and preserve the conservation of flying-foxes. This program aims to assist local governments in managing urban flying-fox roosts effectively and implementing long-term management plans. With $2 million in grant funding allocated from 2021 to 2024, local governments in Queensland have been supported to mitigate the impacts of flying-fox roosts on communities.
Recognizing the importance of managing flying-fox roosts, an additional $1.5 million has been allocated to extend the grant program for another three years. Since 2013, local governments in Queensland have had the authority to manage flying-fox roosts within their areas, provided they adhere to the Code of Practice under the Nature Conservation Act 1992. This autonomy enables local governments to make timely roost management decisions without requiring permits from the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science, and Innovation.
The program’s new funding structure involves six competitive rounds over three financial years, offering local councils the opportunity to apply for grant funding twice per year. Depending on the population size of the local government, funding contributions may vary. For instance, councils with populations of 50,000 or fewer people are eligible to receive 70% of funding for suitable projects, with the remaining 30% to be contributed by the council.
The grant program is structured into three streams to cater to councils at different stages of roost management. Stream 1 focuses on immediate and high-priority actions, while Stream 2 assists in developing long-term roost management plans. Stream 3 supports councils in implementing roost management actions identified in their plans to mitigate flying-fox roost impacts and promote co-existence with communities.
Collaborating closely with the Local Government Association of Queensland, the grant program targets areas with the greatest need for flying-fox roost management. Round 8 of the program is set to open for applications in April 2025, offering $250,000 in grant funding to local governments. Previous rounds have seen successful projects across various councils, including Logan City Council, Gold Coast City Council, Mt Isa Regional Council, and Sunshine Coast Council.
Successful projects under previous rounds have ranged from developing flying-fox roost management plans to implementing actions to mitigate roost impacts. For instance, Logan City Council received funding to develop roost management plans for specific sites, while other councils undertook works such as canopy modifications, vegetation management, and community education programs to address flying-fox roost challenges.
These initiatives not only aim to manage flying-fox roosts effectively but also strive to foster harmonious coexistence between communities, businesses, and the protected species. By providing grant opportunities and support, the Queensland Government is empowering local governments to address flying-fox roost challenges proactively and sustainably.
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