The Albanese Labor Government is investing $10 million to revitalise the iconic Cooks River in south-eastern Sydney. The funding will be used to plant trees, stabilise riverbanks, and install litter traps, all in an effort to restore the waterway to its former glory.

The project will also improve the habitat of aquatic species, including the threatened green and golden bell frogs. In addition, a new paddle trail will be created, giving the community better access to nature.

The project will be delivered by Cooks River Alliance in partnership with Indigenous rangers. It is part of the Government’s $200 million investment in projects that help community groups, NGOs, councils, and First Nations groups clean up and restore their local rivers and waterways.

Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek said, “We want to leave nature better off for our kids and grandkids, and that means repairing damage to our environment and better protecting it for the future.”

“That’s why we’re investing $200 million in projects to revitalise our urban rivers and creeks. We want to support the groups on the ground who understand the needs in their community and are working to better manage and restore their local environment.”

Member for Watson Tony Burke said, “The Cooks River is an asset that we must look after for future generations to enjoy. This funding will help efforts to rehabilitate and clean up the waterway and bring the river back to its natural beauty.”

Member for Barton Linda Burney said, “One of the most important things we can do for future generations is to leave the environment in a better state than we found it. That’s why I’m proud of the investment that the Albanese Labor Government is making to breathe life back into our urban rivers and creeks like the Cooks River. It’s a practical project that will make a real difference.”

We’re excited to see the Cooks River revitalised, and we know that this project will benefit the community for years to come.