The federal government will spend $2.3Billion on the environment. This is in addition to its $1 billion commitment towards the Great Barrier Reef and funding for research and recycling.
The 2022/23 budget confirms spending for the reef over nine year period, as announced in January. It includes advanced marine science and climate adaptation technology.
It increases government funding for the World Heritage site to $3Billion since 2014.
Queensland tourism businesses around its reef will receive an additional $12.4million to support them by waiving environmental management charges and other permit fees for the third year.
The Environment Restoration Fund will be expanded by more than $200 million. This includes conservation of koalas in their habitats, community tree planting programs, and investment into Commonwealth national parks.
Budget also confirms over $800 million for Antarctica research and exploratory work, and $60.4million for advanced recycling.
The government will spend $128.5 millions over four years on environmental Reform to improve the assessment process. It will also spend $11 million over two to accelerate indigenous Heritage reforms.
Sussan Ley, Environment Minister, said that the budget measures demonstrate that the government is focused upon practical environmental solutions.
“It builds on the solid framework of collaboration that we have established in working alongside communities to build better environments.”