Environment groups have welcomed the South Australian Government’s election commitment to invest an additional $15.8 million in land conservation and volunteer-driven environmental restoration.
The Australian Land Conservation Alliance particularly welcomes the continuation of funding for the Heritage Grants Program which enables more landholders to establish or expand Heritage Agreements – which are voluntary, permanent protections on private land.
These agreements are one of South Australia’s most effective tools for safeguarding threatened ecosystems, with 1,650 agreements already protecting over 1 million hectares of important habitat.
“This is a great start but it’s not much more than 1% of the state. Continued investment gives current and future landholders the certainty they need to protect and restore ecologically important landscapes,” ALCA Policy Lead Michael Cornish said.
The Invasive Species Council also welcomed the Heritage Agreement commitment.
“Invasive species don’t stop at the boundary fence, so protecting nature on private land is absolutely critical,” Invasive Species Council Senior Advocate James Johnston said.
“This commitment recognises that supporting landholders to manage invasive species is one of the most effective ways governments can protect nature across the state.”
Allocation of $1 million to the Pastoral Board, is also welcomed, which will allow them to continue clearing the backlog of essential land condition assessments.
“Science-based assessments are critical to ensure sustainable land management. This funding supports improving monitoring effort that underpins responsible decision-making across the pastoral estate.,” said Graeme Finlayson, Healthy Landscape Manager – South Australia, Bush Heritage Australia.
Other key elements of the package include:
- $800,000 for feral cat eradication on Kangaroo Island, advancing a world-leading‑ program.
- $1 million for Landcare SA, supporting grassroots Landcare groups.
- $3 million for Friends of Parks and Nature, backing more than 150 volunteer conservation groups.
- $5 million to clean and revitalise our rivers and waterways
These investments recognise that landholders, environment charities, and community groups are central to protecting South Australia’s biodiversity, and that lasting conservation outcomes rely on sustained, practical support.
“South Australians care deeply about nature – it’s not just a priority for our sector, it’s a priority for voters,” Michael said. “We look forward to seeing all parties step up with commitments that match the scale of need.”
Image: Michael Skopal/Unsplash
