Waterway Protection Program

Project Eligibility

To be eligible for CMA funding a project site needs to meet land ownership eligibility requirements and be on an eligible waterway.

Any projects which are NOT currently on a mapped eligible waterway are still encouraged to submit an expression of interest, as priorities do change and it helps with future planning and funding consideration.

Eligible activities include fencing, stock crossings and off-stream water points, weed control, revegetation, willow removal and pest animal management.

Eligible activities include fencing, stock crossings and off-stream water points, weed control, revegetation, willow removal and pest animal management.

Application Process

Note – we are currently not taking applications, check back again soon.

1. All applicants must first submit an expression of interest form (EOI). You are encouraged to submit an EOI for any project site, whether it is within the geographic area or not.  If you wish to partner with your local Landcare Network on the project, please indicate this on the form, or contact them to submit the EOI on your behalf.
2. Once you submit an EOI:
   • If you are on an eligible river, a staff member will call you to ask some questions about the project site, tell you about the process and funding conditions and check you are keen to proceed.
   • If the site is not an eligible river, we will confirm receipt of your EOI and take your details to keep these on record for future funding opportunities.
3. We will organise a site visit to discuss the scope of the project and the potential activities, collect environmental data, write a management plan and cost the potential project. 
4. You will receive a draft management plan to review the proposed works and costing bid sheet that contains the maximum amount of incentive funding per activity you can receive. If you wish to proceed with the project, you fill out the bid form showing how much of the maximum funding you wish to claim. 
5. Once applications close, we will rank all projects based on cost/benefit for site preference, potential river health outcomes and cost. Funding, subject to availability, is offered to the highest ranked projects.  
6. Successful projects will be offered a contract and the funds to complete the activities listed in the management plan. 
7. Contracts will be signed. 
8. Works will commence.

Please note, unsuccessful sites may be eligible for future funding. Site and landholder information will be kept on a register.