Frequently asked questions

If you have read the 2012-13 business plan and still have questions, please consult these frequently asked questions (FAQs). We may add new FAQs based on feedback from applicants, and as we reach new phases of the 2012–13 funding process.

FAQs about project approvals under the 2011–12 business plan are also available below.

Questions about Caring for our Country are listed as follows:

Click on a heading below to see questions and answers, or Hide all | Show all

Overview - How Caring for our Country will operate in 2012-13

What is Caring for our Country?

Caring for our Country is an Australian Government initiative that seeks to achieve an environment that is healthier, better protected, well-managed and resilient, and provides essential ecosystem services in a changing climate.

Caring for our Country will provide over $2 billion in funding between 2008-09 and 2012-13.

The Australian Government has identified six national priorities for investment:

The Government has developed a set of five-year outcomes for each priority area setting out what it aims to achieve by 2013, in the context of longer term (20-year) results the Government expects Caring for our Country to deliver. To help achieve these outcomes, shorter-term targets are identified for each priority area in the annual Caring for our Country business plans.

The 2012-13 business plan is essential reading for anyone applying for funding under Caring for our Country.

How and when can I apply for Caring for our Country funding?

To achieve the best Caring for our Country outcomes possible, we have provided a number of application options, or 'investment approaches'. The way you apply and the closing date for applications will vary depending on the target/s being addressed in your application. The different closing dates for each investment approach are detailed in the table below.

Caring for our Country 2012-13 business plan applications

Targets Funding available per project
(GST exclusive)		 Investment approach and closing date
Indigenous participation $20 000 to $500 000 Open call: 9 February 2012 5:00pm AEDST
Increasing participation in natural resource management
Increasing native habitat
Reducing the impact of vertebrate pest animals and/or Weeds of National Significance
Managing World Heritage Areas
Protecting Ramsar wetlands
Protecting critical aquatic ecosystems
Improving coastal hotspots
Increasing coastal community engagement
Improving management practices
Landscape-scale conservation
Improving knowledge and skills
Increasing the National Reserve System No specific limits for land acquisitions–determined by land price In addition to open call applications, NRS projects can also be agreed by direct negotiation.
Community Action Grants $5000 to $20 000 A separate application form will be available on the Caring for our Country website. Application dates are to be announced.

What should I consider when developing my application?

We assess applications for Caring for our Country investment on a competitive basis to ensure that the applications that best meet the program outcomes are funded. It is therefore crucial that you:

  • check the method of applying and relevant closing date for your proposed project
  • ensure your project meets the eligibility and assessment criteria for Caring for our Country applications
  • ensure you have read the instructions for completing the online application form
  • ensure you have read the information in section 2 of the 2012-13 business plan relevant to the target/s your application addresses and consider any eligibility requirements specific to the target/s. Additional eligibility criteria are outlined in Section 3 of the 2012-13 business plan.

You might also like to consider discussing your application with your regional natural resource management (NRM) organisation as they may be able to recommend potential partners or linkages for your project.

How many targets should my application address?

Applications must contribute to achieving measurable outcomes across one or more of the six priority areas. To achieve this, they need to deliver results against at least one of the targets outlined in the 2012-13 business plan.

We will assess applications against a maximum of two targets. Proponents should therefore carefully select those targets where their applications can achieve the greatest measurable difference. We recognise that some projects could feasibly address more than two targets. In your application you should, however, only list the two main targets to which your project will contribute.

Are all Caring for our Country targets of equal value for assessment purposes?

Yes, all Caring for our Country targets are of equal value in the assessment of applications. No individual target has a higher weighting over another.

The 2012-13 business plan, however, outlines that applications which solely relate to community skills, knowledge and engagement activities will not be funded. We expect that applications will incorporate community skills, knowledge and engagement activities to support other targets they are addressing.

In addition, Indigenous people are well placed in many areas to assist in the delivery of Caring for our Country targets and it is expected that, where it makes sense to do so, all applications through this business plan will explore and address opportunities for Indigenous people to participate in the delivery of targets.

Will Caring for our Country invest in projects based in major towns and metropolitan areas?

Caring for our Country will invest in applications based in major towns and metropolitan areas subject to the conditions of eligibility and assessment criteria outlined in the 2012-13 business plan.

My application doesn't fit within the geographic priorities identified in the business plan - will it be considered?

Only some targets in the 2012-13 business plan have specific geographic locations, such as improving coastal hotspots, protecting Ramsar wetlands and high ecological value aquatic ecosystems.

For targets where specific geographic locations are identified we are only seeking applications for projects within those locations.

For other targets, where there are no identified geographic priority areas, applications from all areas within Australia will be considered.

What are Community Action Grants and how do they fit into Caring for our Country?

The Caring for our Country Community Action Grants program provides grants between $5000 and $20 000 (GST exclusive) for a broad range of activities which contribute to Caring for our Country national priorities.

Applications for Community Action Grants will be invited from local community-based groups to deliver projects to support sustainable farming or protect and enhance the natural environment. This includes Landcare, Coastcare, ‘friends-of’ organisations and other local community-based groups. It is anticipated that the 2012-13 Community Action Grants round will open for applications in early 2012.

How does Caring for our Country fit with the Clean Energy Future package?

Caring for our Country is a separate program outside the Clean Energy plan and continues to target our six national priority areas: the National Reserve System, biodiversity and natural icons, coastal environments and critical aquatic habitats, sustainable farm practices, natural resource management in northern and remote Australia, and community skills, knowledge and engagement.

The Prime Minister announced on 10 July 2011 the Australian Government's Clean Energy plan, which includes a Land Sector package to help rural communities benefit from carbon farming and support the restoration of biodiverse landscapes.

The new Land Sector package is an exciting part of the Cleaner Energy Future initiative, which complements and builds on the Australian Government's existing natural resource management activities, such as Caring for our Country.

Will Caring for our Country be replaced by the Clean Energy Future Land Sector Package?

No. Caring for our Country is a separate program outside the Clean Energy plan and continues to target our six national priority areas.

Under the 2012–13 business plan, projects primarily aimed at encouraging soil carbon outcomes will not be funded. These projects may be eligible for funding under the government's Carbon Farming Futures package. Carbon outcomes as a beneficial, secondary outcome will still be considered under the ‘improving management practices’ target within the sustainable farm practices national priority area.

Eligibility and eligible activities

Who can apply for Caring for our Country funding?

Caring for our Country funding is available to any legal entity to undertake work that will contribute to achieving Caring for our Country targets.

If your organisation is not a legal entity you will need to partner with an organisation that is. In broad terms, a legal entity is an individual or organisation that can legally enter into a contract.

For the purpose of the business plan and its processes, regional natural resource management organisations are those already identified by the Australian Government.

Additional eligibility criteria are outlined in eligibility requirements of the 2012-13 business plan.

Will regional natural resource management (NRM) organisations be able to apply for base-level funding under the 2012-13 business plan?

No. All regional NRM organisations have now secured full approval for activities to be funded from their five year base-level funding allocations. However, they can still submit competitive applications for additional funding under the 2012-13 business plan open call process.

Can I apply for funding for a one-off environment recovery response?

Requests for assistance of this nature are generally coordinated through the relevant state or territory government. The Australian Government will be working with regional natural resource management organisations and key stakeholders to help with the delivery of ongoing projects and with appropriate measures to assist with environmental recovery.

However, applications for individual projects that address the Caring for our Country targets and at the same time assist in environmental recovery following a natural disaster will be considered through the normal open call or Community Action Grants investment processes. Such activities should not duplicate other programs that address natural disasters such as under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements.

I applied for funding under an earlier Caring for our Country investment round but the application was placed on a reserve list or was unsuccessful. Can I apply again?

Yes. Your application will need to address the targets in the current business plan and will be assessed competitively on its merit against other applications received under the 2012-13 business plan. If you are submitting an application for the same project, you should ensure that it relates to the 2012-13 targets.

I received funding under a previous business plan. Can I apply again in this round?

Yes, as long as the new application is not for items or activities previously funded.

What activities are outside the scope of Caring for our Country?

Caring for our Country will only fund projects that will contribute to the targets outlined in the 2012-13 business plan. Sections 2 and 3 of the business plan detail which activities will and will not be funded under each target.

Caring for our Country funding is not available for activities that fall outside the scope of the initiative, including:

  • activities that are more appropriately funded by other initiatives or programs such as the Australian Government's Water for the Future, Australia's Farming Future and the Clean Energy Future plan.
  • activities such as direct subsidisation of commercial activities, business start-up or where the primary purpose is commercial gain.

A complete list of activities that are outside the scope of Caring for our Country, and therefore not eligible for funding, are listed in Section 3 of the business plan.

In addition, Section 9.1 of the standard funding agreement that successful proponents will sign clearly states that you must not use Caring for our Country funding to acquire any asset unless:

  • the asset is listed in the funding agreement, or
  • the Australian Government has given prior written approval.

In relation to Section 9.1, the following also applies:

  • upon completion of the activity period under which the project was funded the asset is either:
    • to be sold and the net value returned to the Commonwealth, or
    • the proponent has the capacity to purchase the asset at the book value by returning that value to the Commonwealth (not from funds provided by the Commonwealth), or
    • the Commonwealth can consider a request that the grantee/proponent continue to use the asset for purposes and on the conditions set out in the direction.

Can I apply for funding for my project through multiple grant programs?

Projects that are eligible for more than one type of funding may receive funding from Caring for our Country for parts of the project that are not already funded. Evidence of committed funds from other sources will be needed.

The Australian Government will only fund projects through Caring for our Country that are within the scope of the program. Caring for our Country will not provide funding for activities that have already been funded by any other means.

Can I apply for funding under both Caring for our Country and the Clean Energy Future Land Sector Package?

Yes. However, successful applicants cannot accept funding twice for the same project activities.

The Australian Government will only fund projects through Caring for our Country that are within the scope of the program. Applications must primarily contribute to achieving measurable outcomes across one or more of the six priority areas. To achieve this, projects need to deliver results against at least one of the targets outlined in the Caring for our Country business plan 2012–13.

Caring for our Country has as its primary focus the achievement of an environment that is healthier, better protected and provides essential ecosystem services, whereas the Land Sector Package assists Australian land managers to increase the amount of carbon stored on the land, enhance biodiversity and increase resilience across the Australian landscape.

Please contact us if you have accepted funding from another source for the same activities.

My application involves a mix of private and public benefits - is it eligible for consideration?

The Australian Government understands that some applications will contain a mix of private and public benefit. We will focus on the extent to which public benefit exceeds private benefit in determining the eligibility and merit of your application. We will also consider the nature of the activities proposed. For example, the extent of broader public benefits from a pilot or demonstration project. Private contributions to projects with private benefit are important and we will consider whether private contributions are commensurate with the private benefits. In general, we expect public benefits of Caring for our Country investment to exceed significantly any private benefit.

Is Caring for our Country funding available for addressing salinity issues?

Funding may be available to address salinity issues under Caring for our Country where the overall project will contribute to achieving one or more of the Caring for our Country targets.

Will Caring for our Country fund research?

Caring for our Country will not fund projects that are predominantly research.

Where critical and clearly defined applied research is demonstrated to be essential for achieving a target, we may accept a proportionate research component as part of broader actions.

Can we do a project that primarily focuses on engaging the community and increasing knowledge and awareness within the community?

Community engagement applications (other than those under the target for increasing coastal community engagement) must also contribute to other targets to be eligible for funding under the 2012-13 business plan. Proponents seeking support for community engagement must be able to demonstrate how the activities will contribute to meeting other targets. Activity details will need to be defined, including event type and expected participant numbers.

Applications for the target for increasing coastal community engagement are sought for projects that will engage community groups in on-ground coastal and marine rehabilitation, restoration and preventative conservation actions.

Is funding available to promote involvement of volunteers, particularly young people, in natural resource management?

Yes, through the target for increasing participation in natural resource management. These activities must be part of a broader application that will achieve on-ground delivery of other targets in this business plan. Over the past four years, Caring for our Country has delivered fully the outcome for this target. However, in recognition of the importance of building community capacity, this target has been reintroduced in 2012-13.

Community groups and organisations have the opportunity to undertake community skills, knowledge and engagement activities, including workshops, field days and communication initiatives. They can also seek support for facilitation or coordination.

All community-based applications are encouraged to contact their regional natural resource management organisation to seek support for these activities before applying.

Can National Reserve System funding be used to develop a management plan?

Yes, where developing a management plan is considered outside the core business of the landholder.

Can National Reserve System funding be used to manage a reserve?

No. The cost of all management activities consistent with implementing a management plan are to be funded by the landholder.

Are activities to control vertebrate pests eligible for Caring for our Country funding?

Yes. The Caring for our Country business plan has identified priority target areas where the Australian Government will invest in control of identified vertebrate pests. Activities will not be considered for funding that do not explicitly meet these targets or where control of pest animals should be undertaken by individual landholders as part of legal obligations or normal business practice.

Are weed species not yet listed as a Weed of National Significance eligible for Caring for our Country funding?

Under the 'Reducing the impact of vertebrate pest animals and/or Weeds of National Significance' target, Caring for our Country investment is specifically targeting the nationally-agreed Weeds of National Significance.

Control of other weed species can form part of a project addressing other targets under priorities for investment e.g. Protecting Ramsar wetlands, but the proponent will need to provide evidence that the weed impacts on one or more species and communities listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 in a particular area as part of their application. They will also be required to demonstrate how their project will assist in the rehabilitation of these species and/or communities through a long-term commitment to control the weeds in the area.

Have geographic priority areas been identified for invasive species?

No, however, proponents will need to consider the specific investment scope and eligibility requirements outlined in priorities for investment of the 2012-13 business plan when developing applications against the invasive species (vertebrate pest animals and/or Weeds of National Significance) target.

Are monitoring and evaluation activities deemed research projects under the reducing the impact of vertebrate pest animals and/or Weeds of National Significance target and therefore ineligible for Caring for our Country funding?

No. This Caring for our Country target is addressing on-ground control of vertebrate pest animals and/or Weeds of National Significance. It is expected that a proportionate part of your application would address monitoring and evaluating the success of control techniques. Associated research is not an eligible activity.

Do I need to demonstrate that the vertebrate pest I am applying for funding to manage is a threat to a species or community listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999?

Yes.

Applicants should be able to demonstrate the impacts of the vertebrate pest on one or more species and/or communities listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 in a particular area. Applicants will also be required to demonstrate how the project will assist in the rehabilitation of these species and communities through a long-term commitment to control vertebrate pests.

Applications consistent with national and regional strategies that best meet this target and can demonstrate humane pest animal control, cost-effectiveness and how the effectiveness of this control method will be measured would be considered for funding.

The 2012-13 business plan outlines the investment scope relating to vertebrate pests in Section 2.This includes the need for applicants to supply evidence of the impact of the pest species on the threatened species or ecological communities listed in the application and how the activities will mitigate threats.

Are national parks and wildlife services and other government bodies eligible to apply for Caring for our Country funding?

Yes. State, territory and local governments are eligible to apply for funding under Caring for our Country. However, funding will not be available for activities that are normal duty of care management responsibilities of land and coastal managers.

What is a critical aquatic habitat?

Australia's critical aquatic habitats are significant environmental assets which are also fundamentally important to the Australian environment, lifestyle and economy. Critical aquatic habitats may include rivers, wetlands, floodplains, lakes, inland saline environments, groundwater-dependent environments and estuaries, but do not include the marine environment.

Critical aquatic habitats are ecosystems with high ecological values and are recognised through key agreements and conventions signed by the Australian Government at the national level: Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, World Heritage Convention, Japan Australia Migratory Bird Agreement, China Australia Migratory Bird Agreement, and the Bonn Convention on Migratory Species of Wild Animals.

Caring for our Country recognises the importance of these ecosystems and is seeking projects for identified on-ground management actions on public and private land (including on agricultural land) in all 44 of these important ecosystems with a preference for investment in priority sites.

Is Caring for our Country funding available for marine issues?

There are a range of marine issues addressed through Caring for our Country. These include marine activities undertaken within coastal and aquatic environments, and the ecological sustainability of the commercial fishing sector. Under the target for increasing coastal community engagement, preference will be given to those projects that address marine debris issues as identified in the Threat Abatement Plan for the impacts of marine debris on vertebrate marine life.

The following marine-related activities are not eligible for Caring for our Country open call investment in 2012-13:

  • the costs of managing Marine Protected Areas
  • oil spill cleanup activities
  • biosecurity activities related to marine pests such as the management of vessels and ports
  • structural adjustment packages for fisheries.

These activities are generally managed by the Australian Government or state or territory government (depending on jurisdiction) and are funded through other sources.

Apart from Caring for our Country, what other Australian Government investment might be available for environmental and sustainable resource management?

Additional information on natural resource management funding is available on the Caring for our Country website.

An extensive list of government community grants can be found on the GrantsLINK website.

Applications

How and when do I submit my Caring for our Country open call application?

Applications can be submitted using the online application forms available on this website.

All online applications must be lodged by 5:00pm Australian Eastern Daylight Savings Time (AEDST) on 9 February 2012.

Hard copy applications must be postmarked by the closing date.

When and where will the online application forms be available?

The online application forms will be available on 5 December 2011.

Applicants without internet access can request a hard copy application form by phoning 1800 552 008.

Will late applications be accepted?

No. Online applications must be lodged by 5:00pm Australian Eastern Daylight Savings Time (AEDST) on 9 February 2012.Hard copy applications must be postmarked by the closing date.

Can I submit extra information in support of my application?

No. Your project will only be assessed on the information provided in your application form. Additional information will not be considered or accepted.

I am unfamiliar with web-based applications, what do I do?

The applicant guidelines and the ‘How to apply’ section of this website provide guidance to complete your application. To begin the online application process:

  • register as an applicant if you have not previously registered
  • log on and access the online application form using your user name and password
  • save each page as you progress. You may come back to the form at any time by logging on again up until the time you submit the form
  • submit the form by the due date once you are satisfied with your application
  • print a copy of your application for your records when it has been submitted.

What information should my application include?

Prior to beginning your application, read the business plan to determine which targets your project will address. Then read the applicant guidelines to determine the information you will need to include in your application. As part of developing your application, plan your project with relevant stakeholders and ensure that you have the information you need to apply. A summary of application expectations are set out in section 3 of the business plan.

Can I submit more than one application?

Applicants may submit applications for more than one project, or more than one element of a project, as long as each application is a stand-alone eligible application that contributes to the targets. Each application is assessed independently and therefore, each application should be implementable even if other projects in other applications do not receive funding.

My project cannot commence until after 30 June 2013. Will it be eligible for consideration?

No. Projects funded under the 2012-13 business plan must commence and be completed within the 2012-13 financial year, that is, between 1 July 2012 and 30 June 2013.

What if my project can only start at a certain time of year and the announcement date affects this?

If the announcement date affects your project and your project is successful, a case manager will discuss the timing of your project with you. The project must be completed by 30 June 2013.

When does my project need to be completed by?

Projects funded under the 2012-13 business plan must commence within the 2012-13 financial year, that is, between 1 July 2012 and 30 June 2013.

All projects must be completed within the 2012-13 financial year, with all activities to be completed on or before 30 June 2013. The timing for reporting (including financial reporting) is specified in funding deeds between applicants and the Government.

For multi-partner projects and multi-regional projects under the open call, is there an expectation for one combined application or can funds be separated and delivered in each partner/region separately?

We recommend that any multi-regional or multi-partner project be submitted as a single application that identifies the lead partner who would be responsible for overall project management and contracting with the Australian Government. This is because there is a possibility that if a multi-partner or multi-regional project seeks funding through separate applications, only some components of the project may be successful.

Where in Australia can proposed activities be undertaken?

Depending on the target your application is addressing, there may be some specific requirements about where activities can occur. Please refer to the target information for specific details. Activities outside Australia are ineligible.

I don't like using online forms. Can I submit a hard copy application?

Hard copy application forms are available for those who do not have access to the internet. You can request a hard copy application form by calling 1800 552 008.

Can I preview the application questions prior to starting my online application?

Yes. A downloadable reference-only version of the 2012-13 open call application form is available on this website so that applicants can preview the relevant questions before commencing their online application.

Applications should only be submitted via the online application form or, where internet access is unavailable, the official hard copy application. The reference-only version of the application form cannot be used to submit an application.

More informaiton:

Will there be any public information sessions?

Please contact your local Australian Government NRM Officers for information session details.

I have received an Unexpected System Error notification while filling out my online application form and it will not let me save. Is there any action I can take to fix this problem?

Yes. If you are cutting and pasting information from an MS Word document into one of the application form text boxes you need to be aware that sometimes there are hidden characters in the Word text that the online form is unable to recognise. Although these characters will not appear in your word count, pasting into the text box may activate them and cause a system error.

You can fix the problem either by reducing the size of the entry or by typing the information directly into the form.

If you need further assistance with the application process you can call the Caring for our Country information line on 1800 552 008.

The text boxes where I enter information appear crammed on the right side of the page. How can I fix this?

This is a browser issue. Try logging out of the application and closing your internet browser. Then open the internet browser and log in again. If the problem persists, you could also try using a different internet browser such as MS outlook or Google Chrome.

If you need further assistance with the application process you can call the Caring for our Country information line on 1800 552 008.

Process after applications have been submitted

Can I make changes to my application once it's submitted?

No. Once your application has been submitted you cannot make further changes. Before your application is submitted you can make as many changes as you need, then simply save the application again before exiting.

If you want to make changes to a submitted application you will have to submit a new application form before the application closing date. Please email business.planning@nrm.gov.au to notify the Australian Government that you have submitted a new application to avoid any confusion during the assessment process.

How will my application be assessed?

Applications under the 2012-13 business plan will be assessed on eligibility and merit.

The assessment process takes into account an application's contribution to achieving targets, likelihood of success, value for money and alignment with national strategies. This approach is consistent with the Implementing Better Practice Grants: Better Practice Guide (Australian National Audit Office 2010). The Australian Government may seek the advice of technical experts and relevant stakeholder groups in finalising its assessment process.

More information on the assessment criteria is available in Section 3 of the business plan.

How long will it take for my application to be assessed and how will I be notified of the outcome of my submission?

The Australian Government will assess applications submitted under the 2012-13 business plan in a timely manner to enable successful projects to start early in the 2012-13 financial year. All applicants will receive a letter advising the outcome of their application.

If our project is successful, what are the next stages?

Successful applicants will receive a letter advising the outcome of their application. Successful applicants will also be contacted by a departmental case manager to discuss the funding deed.

Funding issues

Why has so much of the $2 billion of funding available already been allocated?

The Australian Government has provided over $2 billion for Caring for our Country between 2008-09 and 2012-13. Many proposals approved in 2008-09, 2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12 have funding committed to multi-year outcomes and will receive funding over a number of years. This gives project managers greater long-term certainty and allows for better planning to improve on-ground outcomes. It also means that some available budget in 2012-13 has already been committed.

How much funding can I apply for?

Generally, funding for individual projects ranges from $20 000 to $500 000 (GST exclusive) and applicants can apply for any amount of funding between these figures. Projects must be completed by 30 June 2013.

If you are addressing more than one target the project should still generally fall within the $20 000 to $500 000 (GST exclusive) range. You can apply for more than $500 000 if you can demonstrate that the project is an exceptional one and demonstrate your capacity to complete the project by 30 June 2013.

The exception to the $500 000 guide is land acquisition proposals under the National Reserve System where land value is a factor.

If your project is valued at less than $20 000, you should apply for a Community Action Grant.

Please refer to the GST questions later in this section for information on how the GST impacts your budget.

Are we required to make financial or in-kind (non financial) contributions?

For applications against the sustainable farm practices targets that could be expected to result in future private benefits, there is an expectation that contributions (either cash or in-kind) will be included in the budget.

If your sustainable farm practices project includes contributions that do not have a direct money exchange (in-kind contributions), you can provide details in your application. For example, your project may need to use a farmer's tractor. The farmer may drive the tractor for an activity related to the project but wants to contribute their labour and tractor running costs rather than include the costs in the project budget. You would need to identify the financial value of this activity and include it as an in-kind contribution.

For other targets there is no requirement for contributions. However the Australian Government encourages groups and organisations to leverage matching funding from business and industry sectors for projects that contribute directly to Caring for our Country targets and outcomes.

There is an increased focus in business and industry on issues such as climate change adaptation, supply chain and corporate social responsibility. This is an opportunity for businesses to achieve natural resource management (NRM) outcomes, through partnerships and working with regional NRM organisations, local and state government agencies, non-government organisations, local community groups, research institutions and Indigenous organisations. These applications will require a specific commitment in writing from the co-investors.

Are in-kind (non financial) contributions taken into account?

In general, in-kind contributions are not specifically taken into account. However, where an application includes an in-kind contribution it will usually be more cost-effective than a similar project that has no in-kind contribution. Private (including in-kind) contributions to projects that have private benefits should be commensurate with the private benefits.

Is funding through the business plan taxable?

Grants are subject to normal taxation treatment and no special arrangements will apply. Applicants should seek independent advice on the taxation implications of receiving a grant. All applications for funding will be GST exclusive. Payment of GST on the grant will be dependent on your GST status.

We are GST-registered. Should we include GST in our project budget?

No. As you are entitled to claim the GST amount through the Australian Taxation Office, you should prepare your Caring for our Country project budget on a GST-exclusive basis. Grants are subject to normal taxation treatment and no special arrangements will apply. Applicants should seek independent advice on the taxation implications of receiving a grant.

We are not GST-registered. Should we include GST in our project budget?

Yes. As you are not entitled to claim the GST amount from the Australian Taxation Office you should prepare your budget on a GST-inclusive basis.
Grants are subject to normal taxation treatment and no special arrangements will apply. Applicants should seek independent advice on the taxation implications of receiving a grant.

Can applications include administration costs, or costs incurred from the application process?

The Australian Government understands that administration is an integral part of delivering a Caring for our Country project and accepts a proportionate amount in the budget for that purpose.
The Australian Government does not fund retrospectively, so costs incurred during the application process and prior to contract commencement will not be funded.

Is monitoring and its associated costs eligible for funding?

Yes. Monitoring requirements are outlined in Section 4 of the business plan. Applications should include proportionate costs for monitoring against targets in their budgets.

How will payments for my project be made? Will they be made in advance?

In accordance with Australian Government grant guidelines, payments will be made upon meeting agreed project milestones, as negotiated with the case manager handling your application.

For projects with a value of up to $80 000 (GST inclusive) that have been assessed as low risk, full payment may be made at the start of the project.

Full payment of the Australian Government contribution toward the acquisition of land to be added to the National Reserve System may be made when the acquisition contract is executed

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Indigenous participation

How can Indigenous people participate in Caring for our Country?

Indigenous people can participate in Caring for our Country in several ways, including, but not limited to:

  1. working with land councils, groupings of land councils or groupings of smaller Indigenous organisations to develop applications
  2. developing applications with partners such as regional NRM organisations, non-government organisations and the industry and commercial sector.

The 2012-13 business plan includes a target to resource projects which directly involve Indigenous organisations or groups to achieve Caring for our Country outcomes.

In addition, to ensure that Indigenous participation opportunities are addressed in the delivery of all relevant targets in the 2012-13 business plan, it is expected that all applications seeking funding through this business plan will explore opportunities for Indigenous people to participate in the project where it makes sense to do so.

Where proposed activities are to be undertaken on Indigenous owned land, approval from the relevant legal entity is required for the activities to be undertaken. Evidence of approval from the relevant legal entity will be needed.

Potential applicants under the Indigenous participation target should contact one of the Australian Government NRM Officers - Indigenous Land Management to discuss their proposal before applying.

How can we engage Indigenous people in our project?

It is expected that all applications seeking funding through the 2012-13 business plan will explore opportunities for Indigenous people to participate in the project where it makes sense to do so. Genuine engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians involves building cultural awareness, connections, capacity and trust, and promoting dialogue.

Closing the Gap information sheets and resources for engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians include a guide to working with Indigenous people and how you can incorporate engagement into everyday processes.

Who can apply for funding against the Indigenous participation targets?

Indigenous organisations or groups are encouraged to apply against this target and may include non-Indigenous organisations as sponsors or partners in their application. Non-Indigenous groups may also apply but must demonstrate genuine partnerships with Indigenous organisations or groups, including how the proposal will deliver on Indigenous priorities and outcomes.

Applications to address the Indigenous participation target must demonstrate that activities will contribute to the on-ground delivery of other targets in the business plan and will be assessed against the criteria for the relevant target.

In addition, to ensure that Indigenous participation opportunities are addressed in the delivery of other targets, it is expected that all other applications seeking funding through this business plan will explore opportunities for Indigenous people to participate in the project where it makes sense to do so.

What do you mean by an Indigenous organisation?

To apply for funding and enter into legal agreements such as contracts, Indigenous organisations must be legally incorporated. Examples of organisations include:

  • land councils
  • community councils
  • land management agencies
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land trusts or representative bodies.

Where an unincorporated Indigenous organisation or group wishes to submit an application, they can be sponsored by an incorporated organisation that can manage the contract. This might be helpful for smaller communities or other groups such as Indigenous land managers or green teams who can do the work but may not be incorporated.

Non-Indigenous organisations, regional natural resource management organisations and local governments with experience in working with Indigenous people are also able to sponsor Indigenous organisations.

What is traditional ecological knowledge and how does it fit into the Caring for our Country business plan?

Traditional ecological knowledge refers to a cumulative body of knowledge, know-how, practices and representations maintained and developed by Indigenous peoples with extended histories of interaction with the natural environment. These sophisticated sets of understandings, interpretations and meanings are part of a cultural complex that encompasses language, naming and classification systems, resource use practices, ritual, spirituality and worldview.

With the ageing of key traditional knowledge holders and the potential for much knowledge to be lost forever, it is important for traditional ecological knowledge to be recorded. The Australian Government is keen to support applications that incorporate traditional ecological knowledge and land and sea country natural resource management plans with the delivery of other Caring for our Country targets. There is a particular focus on projects that draw together the use of traditional ecological knowledge with local knowledge and science to underpin biodiversity conservation outcomes.

Regional natural resource management organisations

What is the role of regional natural resource management organisations under Caring for our Country?

Regional natural resource management (NRM) organisations have formed a partnership with the Australian Government to deliver integrated Caring for our Country projects at the regional level.

The Australian Government expects that regional NRM organisations will provide support and access to knowledge and skills for landholders and environmental groups and act as advocates for Caring for our County in the broader community. Regional NRM organisations may partner with other organisations submitting applications and it is anticipated that in many cases they will act as a sponsor for unincorporated community groups submitting applications.

Regional NRM organisations may also work with local and state governments to deliver region-wide outcomes and maintain the capacity of the regional community to address the Australian Government's targets.

What is regional base-level funding?

The Australian Government provides the identified regional NRM organisations with secure, annual base-level funding until 2012-13. All regional NRM organisations have now secured full approval for activities to be funded from their five year base-level funding allocations.

Regional NRM organisations may continue to provide opportunities for local community groups to seek funding through devolved grants in 2012-13 as part of their regional base-level funding. These activities will form part of annual reporting requirements for regional NRM organisations.

The Australian Government is also seeking significant investment in engaging Indigenous communities through base-level allocations. Many regional NRM organisations are well placed to interact with Indigenous groups and increase Indigenous participation in environmental protection and natural resource management at a regional and local scale. Wherever possible, Indigenous communities should be involved in the delivery of regional programs to address Caring for our Country.

Do regional NRM organisations support small groups?

Regional NRM organisations are expected to support small groups as part of their base-level funding. Small community groups and individuals are encouraged to liaise with their regional NRM organisation to gain knowledge of regional plans before submitting applications under the 2012-13 business plan, with a view to forming strategic partnerships to better deliver on Caring for our Country outcomes wherever feasible.

Can our regional NRM organisation vary the base-level funding it has already committed to multi-year projects under previous Caring for our Country business plans?

You should consult with the relevant Australian Government NRM Officer in your state to discuss varying your existing Caring for our Country schedule.

Where do particular groups fit within Caring for our Country

How do individuals fit into Caring for our Country?

All legal entities, including individuals, are eligible to apply for funding under the 2012-13 Caring for our Country business plan.

In many cases, an individual's best chance of obtaining funding through the 2012-13 business plan may be by partnering with an organisation such as their regional NRM organisation or Landcare group to develop a proposal that will deliver more significant results across many properties.

Can community groups such as Landcare and Coastcare groups apply under the 2012-13 business plan?

Yes, community groups and networks such as ‘friends of’ groups, Indigenous communities, Landcare and Coastcare groups are able to apply for open call funding under the 2012-13 business plan.

Coastal community groups are encouraged to apply against the increasing coastal community engagement target in Section 2.5 of the 2012-13 business plan. This target seeks applications from individual community groups for on-ground coastal and marine rehabilitation, restoration and preventative conservation actions around the Australian coastline.

Coastal community groups and networks are also encouraged to contact their regional NRM organisation to discuss local grant options or to identify other groups with whom they could form partnerships to submit an application.

Community Action Grants of between $5000 and $20 000 (GST exclusive) are also available to support community groups to undertake projects across the national priority areas. Applications for Community Action Grants are sought through a separate process. It is anticipated that the 2012-13 Community Action Grants round will open for applications in early 2012. Applications for Community Action Grants will be invited from local community-based groups to deliver projects that support sustainable farming or protect and enhance the natural environment. This includes Landcare, established or emerging Indigenous organisations, Coastcare, ‘friends-of’ organisations and other local community-based groups.

Can local governments apply for Caring for our Country investment?

Across Australia local governments are playing an increasingly important role in managing our natural resources. Local governments have a range of functions, powers and responsibilities at their disposal for the development and implementation of relevant natural resource policies and programs within their jurisdictions.

Local government organisations are eligible to apply for funding through the Caring for our Country 2012-13 business plan either by themselves or in a partnership with any other eligible organisation.

A good proportion of applications from local governments have been successful in previous years. Applications for projects that address the Caring for Our Country 2012-13 business plan priorities for investment are invited from local governments.

Monitoring, evaluation, reporting and improvement

If successful, how will my project be measured and evaluated?

Under the terms of funding deeds, successful proponents will be required to provide performance information on the results of their projects through six-monthly progress reports.

Funding deeds provide an overview of the outputs that we expect to be delivered. The project MERI plan identifies the detail of the activities to be funded to deliver the outputs in the Deed.

Proponents with projects valued over $80 000 are required to develop and implement a Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Improvement (MERI) plan. Projects of $80 000 and under are required to develop a program logic i.e. identify the key steps in delivering the outputs.

Guides on how to develop a MERI plan and program logic are available from the monitoring and evaluation section of this website.

What is a project MERI plan?

A project MERI plan outlines how monitoring, evaluation, reporting and improvement will occur throughout the life of a project and is a useful tool to use to ensure your project achieves its stated outcomes. It also establishes a framework to:

  • determine what is to be measured and how
  • methodically monitor progress towards stated objectives
  • evaluate success in achieving those objectives
  • progressively report on project progress and performance
  • use this information to learn, adapt and improve the project implementation to achieve the specified outcomes.

Extensive information about how to develop a MERI plan including the MERI plan template is available from the monitoring and evaluation section of this website.

Why are projects required to develop a MERI plan?

All Australian Government projects and programs are required to report on the outcomes of investments of Australian Government funding. With respect to Caring for our Country funded projects:

  • The Australian Government requires information from applicants about on-ground progress and achievements towards the five-year outcomes. This information will be reported to parliament and the Australian public.
  • Applicants are required to report on how they have used funds and to enable the Australian Government to report on how these funds have been used for accountability and transparency purposes.

The Caring for our Country MERI strategy has been developed to provide guidance for a consistent approach to monitoring, evaluation and reporting on project performance and the Caring for our Country initiative as a whole. This enables us to ensure consistent evidence is available about the impact, effectiveness, efficiency and legacy of investment and to inform a process of adoptive management to keep the projects and the Caring for our Country initiative on track.

How often is a project expected to report and what does it report?

Projects are required to report six monthly and annually using the Progress Report template (Appendix 2 of the Caring for our Country MERI Strategy ).

The Progress Report has four elements:

  1. Overview of MERI plan implementation
    This part of the report allows the applicant to provide an overview on the effectiveness and efficiency with which the MERI plan is monitoring and reporting project impacts and achievements. This will also affect the value of the evaluations (lessons learnt) and improvements proposed for the project. An annual review will help maintain the MERI plan as an effective and efficient tool.
  2. Project monitoring and reporting
    The report tables and financial section provides the applicant with the opportunity to report progress in delivering against the target/s identified in the project deed.
  3. Project evaluation (lessons learnt) and improvement
    This section summarises the outcome of the evaluation of the project's impact and achievements and identifies improvements that could/ should be made to the project's delivery/ methodology/ investment portfolio.
  4. Financial reporting
    This section allows reporting of the levels of expenditure against the deed budget.

When do we do a MERI plan?

The funding agreement between the applicant and the Australian Government requires a draft project MERI plan to be submitted for approval within 60 days of the start of a project. MERI plans are reviewed annually between August and October each year to ensure that the plan remains an effective tool for assisting the project meet its targets and outcomes.

Who will approve MERI plans?

Australian Government Land and Coasts case managers will assess and approve Caring for our Country project MERI plans.

Do we need to use the MERI template, can we use another approach?

Proponents may present their MERI plans in a form that best works for the successful implementation of their project.

The Project MERI template is a guide. It contains all the elements/components that the Caring for our Country MERI strategy identified necessary for a robust MERI plan. These include:

  • A program logic
  • Scope of the project
  • Assumptions
  • Evaluative questions
  • Monitoring plan
  • Budget
  • Project improvement
  • Communications plan

The use of MERI for projects is based on best practice and is a component of good project management.

Based on these considerations, Australian Government case managers will be reviewing MERI plans with a view to ensuring that best practice management principles are evident in the MERI plan and work plan.

Can I use an existing MERI plan for a new project?

Existing MERI plans (e.g. Regional natural resource management plans or existing projects of similar nature) may be a good starting point to develop program logics and associated MERI plans for Caring for our Country projects. However the scale of the existing MERI plan may not be appropriate. The program logic, assumptions and key evaluation questions will need to be tested for relevance to the project.

2011–12 business plan project approval information

How many proposals were submitted and approved?

As at December 2011, 159 open call projects worth $48.1 million (GST inclusive) have been approved and notification letters have been sent for these projects.

584 proposals were submitted seeking around $201 million in Caring for our Country funding in the recent open call investment round.

There was a strong response to the call for investment proposals and the total value of submissions was far in excess of the available funding.

Many high quality proposals were received. Projects that were approved addressed the targets strongly and sought funding to achieve meaningful and targeted results.

An additional $38 million (GST exclusive) has been provided to support Reef Rescue projects.

How much funding was made available through this investment round?

The indicative budget for the 2011–12 business plan was approximately $178 million (GST exclusive), split notionally across the following national priority areas:

National priority area Notional multi-year budget available (GST exclusive)
National Reserve System $ 35 million
Biodiversity and natural icons $ 77 million
Coastal environments and critical aquatic habitats
Sustainable farm practices
Base-level funding for regional NRM organisations $ 66 million
Total notional multi-year budget available Up to $178 million
Community skills, knowledge and engagement Targets in this priority area will be delivered via projects addressing targets in other national priority areas. Community Action Grants are also available to support community groups to undertake projects in other national priority areas.
Northern and remote Australia Funding for northern and remote Australia is delivered through several targets and activities under other national priority areas.

Notes: Notional budgets are approximate and described in whole millions. Not all available budget under Caring for our Country will be offered through the 2011–12 business plan. This will ensure that funds are available for new projects in 2012–13.

How will proponents be notified about the outcome of proposals?

All proponents will be notified by mail on the outcome of their proposal.

How much base-level funding did regional natural resource management (NRM) organisations receive under the 2011–12 business plan?

The Australian Government approved $66.4 million in Caring for our Country base level funding for 22 NRM organisations under the 2011–12 business plan.

Across Australia, there are 56 NRM organisations and 34 of these have already had their base-level funding fully approved for the first five years of the Caring for our Country initiative. All Victorian organisations have previously had their full allocation committed.

In the 2011–12 business plan, the 22 regional NRM organisations yet to commit their full allocation were invited to submit an expression of interest for their remaining base-level funding that addressed the Caring for our Country targets and outcomes.

Following the 2011–12 business plan, all regional NRM organisations have now secured full approval for activities to be funded from their five year allocations.

State Regional base-level funding under the 2011-12 business plan
Australian Capital Territory $ 2 718 000
New South Wales $ 13 688 527
Northern Territory $ 6 636 600
Queensland $ 6 138 974
South Australia $ 12 577 044
Tasmania $ 150 000
Victoria All funds previously allocated
Western Australia $ 24 489 871
Total $ 66 399 016

How were proposals assessed?

State and territory-based community Preliminary Screening Panels assessed the eligibility and merit of proposals. A National Moderating Panel consolidated the preliminary screening information into recommendations for a national portfolio of best quality projects. This suite of recommendations represented an appropriate mix and balance of projects against targets and geographic distribution. An Executive Panel provided advice to Ministers regarding the National Moderating Panel's recommendations. An independent Quality Assurance Group certified integrity of the assessment process.

When will I get my contract?

Contract packages will be sent to proponents by Australian Government Land and Coasts (AGLC). This will include the details of the Australian Government case manager who will be overseeing the project.

When do we have to return our signed contract?

This date will be negotiated with your case manager.

When will we receive our funding?

Once a correctly signed contract has been accepted by the Commonwealth, grantees can expect to receive their payment / first allocation within 28 days.

Why didn't we get the full amount of funding we were seeking?

The recent Caring for our Country investment round generated a very strong competitive response from organisations. Proposals were assessed and ranked in terms of how they addressed the Caring for our Country targets and criteria set out in the business plan. This was reflected in the funding offered to individual projects. Your case manager will be able to explain why your project may not have received the full amount of project funding you were seeking.

What are our monitoring and reporting requirements?

Funding deeds with applicants will clearly identify the results expected from investments. All applicants with projects over $80 000 in value must develop and implement a monitoring, evaluation, reporting and improvement (MERI) strategy. Projects of $80 000 and under must develop a program logic.

For further information see monitoring, evaluation, reporting and improvement for Caring for our Country or talk to your case manager.

Further information

How can I access further information on the 2012-13 business plan?

If your question is not answered here, you should contact us by:

  • emailing the Caring for our Country team at business.planning@nrm.gov.au
  • calling the Caring for our Country information line on 1800 552 008

Australian Government staff, including the Australian Government NRM Officers, can clarify any issues that you have and provide general information on the business plan such as its processes, the targets and their meaning, location and priorities and the scale of projects.

You can contact Australian Government NRM Officers, located in each state, for questions relating to specific applications.