Urban forest projects boost Swan Canning Riverpark restoration | Western Australian Government
🌱 Key Takeaways
Six new urban forest restoration projects will roll out across the Swan Canning Riverpark over the next three years.
$925,000 in funding is being shared among six local governments.
The Urban Forest program will be extended in 2025, with an additional $1.85 million over two years.
The initiative supports the Cook Labor Government’s commitment to protecting and restoring WA’s natural environments.
Projects will be delivered in partnership with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA).
Funding covers up to two‑thirds of each project’s total cost.
🏞️ Background & Program Impact
The Urban Forest program began as a 2021 election commitment with $3 million over four years.
Earlier rounds supported 20 restoration projects, including:
41 hectares of weed control
27 hectares of revegetation
500,000+ native plants established
The program aims to improve ecosystem health, urban canopy, biodiversity, and community amenity.
📍 Funded Projects (2026 Round)
| Location / Site | Local Government | Project Focus |
|---|---|---|
| William Lane Riparian Corridor | City of Gosnells | Connect restored riparian areas to form an eco‑corridor along Southern River. |
| Wungong River Urban Forest | City of Armadale | Restore foreshore at Champion Lakes; invasive species control + diverse native planting. |
| Point Fraser Foreshore & Swales | City of Perth | Revegetation of foreshore and car park swales linked to the river. |
| Casuarina Lake, Garvey Park | City of Belmont | Restore understorey/midstorey vegetation to support local fauna. |
| Bindaring Park North | Town of Bassendean | Weed control and revegetation around living stream and bushland. |
| Maylands Foreshore | City of Bayswater | Multiple revegetation and weed‑control sites to improve habitat and connectivity. |
🗣️ Minister’s Comments
Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn emphasises:
The Riverpark’s importance to environmental and community wellbeing.
The value of local government partnerships in expanding on‑ground restoration.
Continued investment reflects a commitment to protecting Perth’s natural assets for future generations.