http://www.climatespectator.com.au/news/aust-regions-given-cash-curb-climate-change

 

Australia's regional areas will have access to nearly $25 million in federal funding to prepare for the impact of climate change and steer projects that boost biodiversity.

 

Environment Minister Tony Burke on Thursday launched the government's first wave of funding linked to climate change for the country's natural resource management (NRM) organisations.

The government has identified 56 NRM regions that are based on catchments and "bioregions", areas that influence an entire ecosystem.

The cash, to be rolled out over four years, falls under the government's suite of measures aimed at shifting Australia to a clean energy future.

Along with a carbon price, investing in renewable power and encouraging energy efficiency, the government has set aside $1.7 billion for tackling climate change on the land.

Regional organisations have until late February to apply for funding assistance to develop strategies for mitigating climate change, such as through carbon farming.

Mr Burke said the $24 million would help regions pinpoint where to best improve carbon storage and enhance biodiversity.

"There is probably no greater example of thinking globally and acting locally than to have every regional body in the country planning for climate change," Mr Burke said in a statement.

An additional $15 million funding stream will support research and analysis to develop scenarios on regional climate change to help with medium term planning.