More than $1 million is supporting projects across Western Sydney to support Caring for Country initiatives.

More funding is on its way to Western Sydney councils to support First Nations-led projects that strengthen connections to Country, cultural knowledge and community through the Caring for Country grants program.

WSROC and the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) have completed assessment of Round Two applications, with funding agreements now being finalised. The latest round will support projects including cultural burning, junior ranger programs and First Nations-led research.

The program provides councils across the Cumberland Plain Conservation Plan area with funding to work alongside Traditional Custodians and Aboriginal communities on practical projects that protect Country, strengthen cultural capability and create opportunities for Aboriginal people to share and build knowledge.

Across the first two rounds, Eight councils have now accessed more than $1 million in funding, supporting initiatives that bring together environmental conservation, cultural knowledge and community participation.

The program is part of the implementation of the Caring for Country Aboriginal Outcomes Strategy 2024–33, which aims to embed Aboriginal knowledge, perspectives and leadership into the long-term management of the Cumberland Plain.

For WSROC, the program demonstrates the important role councils can play in supporting First Nations communities and delivering local, practical outcomes for Country - backed by sustained investment and partnerships with Traditional Custodians.

 More information about the Caring for Country Grants Program can be found here.