East Gippsland Shire Council has put the management of public land on the agenda, calling for investment in public land management programs.
With 75 per cent of East Gippsland classified as public land, mayor Cr John White said there is an urgent need for investment in public land management programs.
“East Gippsland is renowned for its natural environment, which provides our community with essential resources for health and wellbeing, including food, fresh water, wood, fibre and fuel, but it must be looked after,” Cr White said.
“Public land management programs would provide immediate job creation, strengthen local economies and reduce both welfare dependency and Commonwealth expenditure on disaster response and recovery.”
Council is asking for:
– Through the National Emergency Management Agency’s funding to the states, require the State Government to commit to better resourcing of public land management, including increased locally based
personnel deployment.
– Programs and funding to address new invasive weeds and pests.
– Funding for local industry development projects that support employment opportunities through land-use management and access using local knowledge, game management, pest control and training and education to entice families to communities such as the Orbost and Cann River districts.
