The Victorian Government is protecting the future of our state’s precious coastline with more than $11 million for maintenance and erosion management projects including $3 million for Apollo Bay.
Labor Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney said the funding for Apollo Bay will go towards design and commence construction of new coastal protection structures that will protect beaches in and around Apollo Bay and safeguard sections of the Great Ocean Road.
These works will help to restore our coastline and improve community resilience to coastal hazards such as inundation and erosion.
The funding was announced this week by Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio as part of package to help address the climate challenges of rising sea levels and coastal erosion along Victoria’s much-loved coastline.
New grants totalling $500,000 will also be available to coastal land managers to address access and coastal protection issues.
The funding will also support Traditional Owner partnerships in marine and coastal planning and management, improve planning for activities in marine waters and the implementation of the Port Phillip Bay Environmental Management Plan.
Victoria has more than 2,500 kilometres of coastline and about 10,000 square kilometres of marine waters that provide enormous environmental, social, cultural and economic value.
The funding is part of the Government’s $2.7 billion Building Works package, creating thousands of jobs and opportunities for Victorian businesses through and beyond the coronavirus pandemic.
The Government has invested more than $60 million into a range of marine and coastal projects since 2014.
To learn more about the Marine and Coastal Policy visit: marineandcoasts.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“These works will help to restore Apollo Bay’s much-loved coastline – helping to ensure safe access and protect the marine environment.”
“Our precious coastline is facing significant climate challenges and we’re working hard to address this in the short and long term.”
“This funding will help create jobs while protecting our coastal environment so locals and tourists can continue to enjoy it for generations to come.”