Local environment groups, schools, senior citizens' organisations and youth groups are encouraged to apply for funding to support actions or projects that support threatened species.

The Nationals Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said $800,000 would be provided through the Threatened Species Protection Initiative for small-scale, local threatened species projects that helped the community to better connect with the local environment.

“There are already many local groups and individuals that are active in undertaking projects that protect threatened species and the local environment and this program provides funding to ensure they can continue the important work now and into the future,” Mr Bull said.

Mr Bull said types of activities that could be funded under this arm of the fund include building nest boxes, fencing to protect habitats from trampling, volunteer activities and training and community activities that improve the understanding of threatened species conservation.

In addition to the volunteer action grants, $200,000 has also been earmarked for a crowdfunding campaign, which would be provided on a dollar-for-dollar basis.

“This part of the fund will give community groups access for funding of up to $25,000 which will be equally matched through this threatened species initiative," Mr Bull said.

“This means that locals can raise funds for additional threatened species projects while being supported through the Threatened Species Protection Initiative.

“Previous threatened species that have been the focus of past grants include, the Helmeted Honeyeater, Baw Baw Frog, Hooded Plover, Forest Redgum and various orchid species,” he said.

For more information or to apply for a grant, visit www.delwp.vic.gov.au/tspi.