April 6th, 2024Draft Ballarat biodiversity strategy open for consultation

The City of Ballarat’s Draft Ballarat Biodiversity Strategy has been released for community review and feedback.

The draft strategy maps out a future for biodiversity across the municipality, outlining actions that will protect and strengthen Ballarat’s natural environment.

Those keen to make a contribution are able to lodge their input up until 5pm, Tuesday 30 April via the council’s website. 

The strategy will help guide the management and protection of the region’s unique landscapes and species, and is the first co-designed strategy the City of Ballarat has delivered in partnership with Wadawurrung and alongside the Country Plans of the Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung Traditional Owners.  

The City of Ballarat held community consultation in the development of the Draft Ballarat Biodiversity Strategy, Healing Country Together, late last year, including hosting a Young People’s Forum with 20 participants.

As part of the community consultation, more than 100 surveys were completed, more than 20 detailed submissions were made, 30 community members representing active community groups attended workshop discussions and more than 70 City of Ballarat employees contributed to an ideas workshops.

Feedback from the community will inform the final Biodiversity Strategy, which is expected to go before the council for consideration later this year.

Words & Image: Supplied