The WIRES National Grants Program (WIRES NGP) has been designed to support best practice rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife, an increase in emergency preparedness in the sector, along with native species recovery projects to improve long-term outcomes in Australia.

The WIRES National Grants Program (WIRES NGP) has been developed to provide ongoing support for wildlife, and their habitats, across Australia. WIRES focus is on proposals that have tangible, positive and ideally long-term outcomes for wildlife. Funding granted through this program is one-off and is for projects of between 6-12 months duration.

This is a competitive grants program. Demand is likely to outweigh available funds, and therefore eligible applications will be evaluated by an assessment panel. This assessment will be based on funding priorities, demonstrated need and the funds available.

Project outcomes should also support the objectives of the WIRES National Grants Program including:

• Building capacity and capability for the Australian wildlife rescue and rehabilitation sector.
• Improving emergency preparedness and response capabilities to assist wildlife.
• Preserving species and their habitat through projects leading to long term positive outcomes for native wildlife.
• Raising community awareness and inspiring broader community involvement in supporting Australian wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and preservation.

Funding available

A total funding pool of up to $200,000 is available across four tiers.

Eligible applicants are invited to submit proposals for:

• Tier 1: Individually Licensed Wildlife Rescuers and Carers (6-month project up to $1,000)
• Tier 2: Licensed Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Organisations (6-month project up to $5,000)
• Tier 3: Environmental NGOs and Community Groups (12-month project up to $10,000)
• Tier 4: Consortia/Multi-partner Collaborations (12-month project up to $20,000)

Applicant must:

• Be a legal entity, able to enter into a legally binding agreement
• Must comply with all relevant laws and regulations in undertaking the project
• Have the knowledge, experience and appropriate licences/permissions required to deliver the project and have been operating in this capacity for a minimum of two years
• Be the organisation or individual completing the project
• Be located in and conduct activities within Australia
• Not have overdue progress or acquittal reports for previously funded grants
• Have a demonstrated history of professional, proactive, and positive collaboration with other organisations and individuals, including WIRES
• Submit the correct application form accurately and on time
• Have the appropriate type and level of insurance for the activities that are the subject of this proposal
• Have an Australian bank account
• Not have a current active grant with WIRES

• Email: grants@wires.org.au