MINISTER for Agriculture, Ros Spence recently announced that applications for the Animal Welfare Fund are open as $1.6 million will be spent to support companion animal welfare across Victoria.
Over the past decade, the Animal Welfare Fund (AWF) Grants Program has shared over $14.75 million in funding to not-for-profit animal shelters, foster care organisations and community vet clinics, directly improving the wellbeing of companion animals across Victoria.
In 2023, the Mountain Brumby Sanctuary Broadford received $86,000 to help streamline its sanctuary operations under the pet desexing and equine rehabilitation grants program.
Vice President Jo Curtis said its day to day operations changed forever.
“The fact that we could get a tractor, a crush, a trainer, and cover some vet bills was a real lifesaver,” she said.
“The tractor has been a game-changer. Making it easier to manage the paddocks and the round bales of hay, it reduced the physical demands on our volunteers.
“Our team [has] achieved remarkable success in training and rehoming a large number of Brumbies, exceeding initial expectations.
“Handling has facilitated smooth transitions, ensuring a better chance at forever homes.
“Working with the Brumbies has been an incredible opportunity for our volunteers to learn and grow and acquire new skills and confidence.
“We are facing a challenging time due to a shortage of volunteers, and we urgently need more local help to ensure its smooth operation.
“Although the process is time-consuming, we’ve chosen to reapply for another grant to obtain necessary funds and facilitate the rehoming of additional Brumbies, through training and veterinary care.”
To apply and for more information, visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au
Applications close on Thursday, November 27.
Funding for wildlife volunteers
The Victorian Government is also supporting its wildlife rehabilitator volunteers who dedicate their time and expertise to care for sick, injured and orphaned wildlife.
The grants are providing more than $310,000 to support 150 wildlife shelter operators and foster carers by improving the standard of care they provide, enhancing facilities to treat, house and rehabilitate wildlife for release, and boosting their skills and knowledge through education and training.
Since 2015, the Victorian Government has invested $7.4 million to support the work of foster carers, authorised wildlife shelter operators and key wildlife organisations.
The Government committed $7.2 million from the 2023-24 State Budget for wildlife welfare and preparedness actions.
The 2025-26 State Budget allocated an additional $2.1 million to support the protection of wildlife, which will continue support for Wildlife Victoria Hotline and provide support for shelters and carers to rehabilitate wildlife.
This funding delivers on the Victorian Government’s long-term plan to protect the environment – Biodiversity 2037.
For more information, please visit wildlife.vic.gov.au/grants/wildlife-rehabilitator-grants