Minister for Environment, Energy and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio, today visited a beach renourishment project in Sandringham to launch the Port Phillip Bay Environmental Management Plan 2017-2027.
The plan will help guide actions and investments over the next decade to ensure a healthy Port Phillip Bay that is valued and cared for by all Victorians, according to the Premier of Victoria’s latest release.
Key objectives of the plan include sharing responsibility of the Bay across community, industry and government, improving water quality and protecting habitats and marine life.
Minister D’Ambrosio said: “Port Phillip Bay is one of our most treasured ecosystems, and this plan will help protect it. These initiatives will ensure the Bay’s rich and unique environment is preserved for Victorians and tourists alike.”
Minister D’Ambrosio also opened a second round of Port Phillip Bay Fund grants worth $3.5 million to help community groups and organisations preserve the health, amenity and sustainability of the Bay and surrounding coastline.
The Labor Government has also announced $700,000 for the Nature Conservancy for its Restoring the Lost Shellfish Reefs of Port Phillip Bay project.