To further support the substantial work undertaken by Friends of Parks and Nature (FOPN) groups across South Australia's national park reserves and other important conservation-based initiatives.

The Friends of Parks and Nature Grant Program offers grants of up to $15,000 per application (GST exclusive), with a total of up to $700,000 available in 2025-2026. Groups may apply for more than one grant using a separate application for each.

The FOPN Grant Program is focused on conservation-based activities including the protection of biodiversity, Aboriginal cultural heritage and European heritage activities across national parks, reserves, and the broader landscape where the outcomes are supported by relevant habitat restoration or biodiversity plans etc, or consistent with the objectives of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972. Applications may also include the purchase of minor plant/equipment and other materials/services that support a group's project and conservation outcomes.

Grant funding is available for activities and projects spanning up to 18 months in duration, with projects commencing when payment is received.

To be considered eligible for funding;

• Applicant groups must be a current financial member group registered with Friends of Parks and Nature Inc., and have received endorsement from a Regional Parks & Wildlife Manager (and relevant landholder if undertaken off-park) as part of the application.
• Applicant groups must be incorporated, or otherwise Sponsored by an incorporated organisation such as local government, Landscape Board, Local Action Planning group, FOPN Inc., etc. This sponsor relationship must be supported in writing and attached to the application.
• Applicant groups must not have outstanding grant acquittals more than six months past their grant agreement deadline, unless prior approval has been obtained.
• To meet the requirements of the Department of Treasury and Finance groups must demonstrate an in-kind or co-contribution to their project of at least 50% of the funding amount being sought. This can include volunteer hours, other funds or other in-kind contribution e.g. third party support with freight or cartage costs.
• Project applicants must have obtained all necessary endorsements or approvals from either the relevant National Park region and/or local government and/or private landowner for the proposed project to be undertaken, prior to an application being submitted. If legislative approvals or permits are required to carry out the proposed works these must be attached to the application (e.g. CASA license for drone use).

• Phone: 0439 870 378
• Email: Susan.Taite@sa.gov.au