Wildlife rehabilitators to get $9 million in funding 

Blue Mountains wildlife carers and rehabilitators will benefit from the nine million dollars in funding being set aside state-wide, to boost volunteers and veterinary professionals caring for injured, sick, and orphaned native animals. 

The Mountains has approximately 150 wildlife carers, which includes members of WIRES, veterinarians who specialise in wildlife in their practices, the Science for Wildlife team and the Blue Mountains Wombat Conservation Group among others. 

The Minns Labor Government is providing the $9 million in funding, following the release of the recommendations of the NSW Wildlife Rehabilitation Sector Review, which were published on February 1. 

Led by the Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment, Trish Doyle MP, the NSW Wildlife Rehabilitation Sector Review started in July 2024 and involved extensive consultation across the state. 

The extensive review was undertaken to address funding, training, and logistical challenges for more than 8,600 dedicated wildlife volunteers rescuing more than 110,000 animals annually. 

Recommendations from the review will be adopted in full. This includes reinstating the much-loved Wildlife Heroes initiative with a centralised hub for information to support wellbeing and cohesion in the sector. 

Actions from the review include: 

• Expanding training and upskilling carers for situations like fires and natural disasters. 

• Grants to cover the cost of food, bandages, medication and vaccinations. 

• Upgrading mental health support for volunteers, including access to counselling and peer support networks. 

The package will include support programs for small operational expenses and collaborative initiatives for rehabilitators, veterinarians, and researchers. 

Quotes attributed to Blue Mountains MP and Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment Trish Doyle 

“It's been a privilege to hear the stories of our wildlife rehabilitators. I’ve been moved by the dedication, resilience and passion for our native wildlife. 

“I want to thank everyone who has worked with me to pull together this incredible piece of work to make a real difference in the sector.” 

Quotes attributed to NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe 

“We’ve known that our carers were under immense pressure and this review gives us a clear direction to support the work they do. 

“The work our carers do to rehabilitate our native animals is irreplaceable. 

“I’m thrilled to announce this funding, and I’m committed to working with the sector to implement these recommendations for our rehabilitators and our wildlife.” 

Caption: Blue Mountains MP Trish Doyle with Hills Wildlife Sanctuary manager Ben Dessen and Wendy the wombat at the launch of the wildlife report on Sunday February 1. Picture supplied.