20 Million Trees Programme Grant
Guidelines
Round One 2014–15
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
These grant guidelines (Guidelines) are for organisations and individuals seeking to undertake a revegetation project
(Project) supported by the 20 Million Trees Programme (Programme).
There will be a separate process for organisations seeking to be engaged as a national service provider
(organisations engaged by the Australian Government to coordinate and deliver large-scale revegetation projects for
the Programme). For information about this stream of the Programme visit: www.nrm.gov.au/20-million-trees.
© Commonwealth of Australia, 2014.
The 20 Million Trees Programme Grant Guidelines—Round One 2014–15 is licensed by the Commonwealth of
Australia for use under a Creative Commons By Attribution 3.0 Australia licence with the exception of the Coat of
Arms of the Commonwealth of Australia, the logo of the agency responsible for publishing the report, content supplied
by third parties, and any images depicting people. For licence conditions see:
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/au/.
This document should be attributed as ‘20 Million Trees Programme Grant Guidelines—Round One 2014–15,
Commonwealth of Australia 2014’.
The Commonwealth of Australia has made all reasonable efforts to identify content supplied by third parties using the
following format ‘© Copyright, [name of third party]’.
Images: Forest landscape of the Rocky Hills (Nick Rains), sand dune revegetation, Leighton Beach, WA (Tony
McDonough), tree planting in the Lane Cove National Park, NSW (John Baker)
DEFINITIONS
The following definitions apply throughout this document.
Applicant
An entity who is applying under the Programme and who may enter into a formal
Funding Agreement with the Department if their Application is successful.
Application
An application for funding under of Round One of the Programme—Stream 1.
Application Form
The Programme grant funding application form, available at www.nrm.gov.au/20million-trees
Assessment
Criteria
The assessment criteria to be used to assess Applications as described in
Section 5.3 of these Guidelines.
Assessment
Process
The process that will be used to assess Applications as described in Section 5.4 of
these Guidelines.
Closing Time
The Closing Time for Applications as outlined in Section 5.1 of the Guidelines.
Department
The Department of the Environment or any other agency that administers the
Programme from time to time.
Eligibility Criteria
The criteria that an Applicant, and a Project must meet in order to be eligible for
funding under the Programme, as described in Section 2.1 of these Guidelines.
Funding
Agreement
A legally enforceable, performance-based contract between the Department and
the successful Applicant that sets out the terms and conditions governing the
funding to be provided under the Programme.
Guidelines
The 20 Million Trees Programme—Grant Guidelines: Round One 2014–15 (this
document).
Minister
The Minister responsible for the Australian Government Department which
administers the Programme from time to time, currently the Minister for the
Environment.
Programme
The 20 Million Trees Programme.
Programme
Objectives
The strategic objectives of the Programme as defined in Section 1.4 of these
Guidelines.
Project
A project which satisfies the Eligibility Criteria in Section 2.3 of these Guidelines.
Project Activities
The Activities that Applicants propose to undertake to address one or more of the
Programme Objectives.
Project Outcomes
The outcomes that a Project proposes to deliver.
Project Site
The location/area where Project Activities will take place. A Project may have
multiple Project Sites.
Round One
This Round One of the 20 Million Trees Programme—Stream 1, as described in
these Guidelines.
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KEY DATES
Anticipated timeframes for Round One of the Programme:
Programme
Round
Applications
open
Applications
close
Application
assessment
period
Project
announcem
ents
Projects must
commence and be
completed between
Round One
2 October 2014
2.00 pm AEDT
30 October
2014
November
2014
December
2014
January 2014 –
June 2017
KEY DOCUMENTS
The following documents are available at the website (www.nrm.gov.au/20-million-trees) to help you prepare your
Application for funding under the Programme:
 20 Million Trees Programme—Grant Guidelines : Round One 2014–15 (this document)
 20 Million Trees Application Form
SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Step 1:
Read these Guidelines and any other relevant information made available on the Department’s website
(www.nrm.gov.au/20-million-trees).
Step 2:
Complete the online Application Form available at www.nrm.gov.au/20-million-trees. A hard copy Application Form
can be requested by calling the 20 Million Trees information line on 1800 552 008. Electronic applications are
preferred.
Step 3:
Submit your Application to the Department before 2.00 pm AEDT on 30 October 2014 and keep a copy for your
records. Applications received after this time will be registered as ‘late’.
Additional information provided by the Applicant but not requested in the Application Form will not be assessed.
Options for submitting your completed Application:
Online via the online Application
Form (preferred)
www.nrm.gov.au/20-milliontrees
Post your hard copy application to:
20 Million Trees Programme
Biodiversity Conservation Division
Department of the Environment
GPO Box 787
CANBERRA ACT 2601
Courier deliveries to:
20 Million Trees Programme
Biodiversity Conservation Division
Department of the Environment
Reception, John Gorton Building,
King Edward Terrace
PARKES ACT 2600
More information about submitting your Application is at Section 5.1 of these Guidelines.
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Table of Contents
Part 1: Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................... 6
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
Overview of the 20 Million Trees Programme ................................................................................. 6
Delivery of the Programme ............................................................................................................. 7
Grant funding available in Round One ............................................................................................ 7
Programme Objectives ................................................................................................................... 8
Part 2: Eligibility Criteria and Declarations ................................................................................................................ 11
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
Applicant eligibility ........................................................................................................................ 11
Applicant declarations .................................................................................................................. 12
Project eligibility............................................................................................................................ 13
Eligible activities ........................................................................................................................... 13
Activities that may be funded through other funding sources ........................................................ 14
Activities that will not be funded through the Programme ............................................................. 14
Part 3: Guidance for designing Projects .................................................................................................................... 14
3.1
What species should I plant? ........................................................................................................ 15
3.2
Where can I carry out a Project? .................................................................................................. 15
3.3
What information should I use to develop my Project? ................................................................. 15
3.4
How do I count trees to be established through my Project? ........................................................ 15
3.5
How long do the plantings need to remain for? ............................................................................. 16
3.6
Do I need to account for tree survival? ......................................................................................... 16
3.7
Can my Project receive recognition under the Emissions Reduction Fund or the Carbon Farming
Initiative?................................................................................................................................................. 17
Part 4: What is required of Applicants? ...................................................................................................................... 17
4.1
4.2
4.3
Project planning and management ............................................................................................... 17
Project Site preparation and maintenance .................................................................................... 18
Risk management ........................................................................................................................ 18
Part 5: Application and Assessment Process ............................................................................................................ 20
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
How to apply ................................................................................................................................ 20
Late Applications .......................................................................................................................... 21
Assessment Criteria ..................................................................................................................... 21
Assessment Process .................................................................................................................... 23
Part 6: Funding Agreement requirements .................................................................................................................. 24
Part 7: Monitoring and reporting ................................................................................................................................. 26
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
Project monitoring and reporting ................................................................................................... 26
Programme monitoring and reporting ........................................................................................... 27
How will Projects be acquitted? .................................................................................................... 27
Evaluation of the Programme ....................................................................................................... 27
Part 8: Rights and responsibilities .............................................................................................................................. 27
8.1
8.2
8.3
Applicants..................................................................................................................................... 27
The Australian Government’s rights.............................................................................................. 28
Confidentiality and privacy ............................................................................................................ 29
Part 9: Enquiries and complaints ................................................................................................................................ 30
Part 10: Contact details ................................................................................................................................................ 30
Part 11: Useful references ............................................................................................................................................ 30
4
Part 12: Glossary ........................................................................................................................................................... 32
5
Part 1: Introduction
1.1
Overview of the 20 Million Trees Programme
The Australian Government has committed to working with the community to plant 20 million trees by 2020 to reestablish green corridors and urban forests. This initiative will deliver real environmental benefits at the local level
through community participation in re-establishing native vegetation, providing habitat to support our threatened
species and sequestering carbon from the atmosphere. These in turn will help to create greener spaces to improve
the liveability of our cities and towns.
The Australian Government has committed $50 million over four years toward delivery of the Programme.
Australia’s unique and diverse environment contributes to our identity as a nation. The Programme will support our
natural environment by re-establishing native vegetation that is locally appropriate and contributes toward cleaner air
and land, and healthier, more resilient landscapes. Improving the extent, condition and connectivity of native
vegetation will support our native species, in particular threatened species.
The Programme is an important part of the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme, comprising of a
national stream and a regional stream. The 20 Million Trees Programme is part of the national stream, and will
complement and align with other Australian Government environmental initiatives, such as the Green Army and
establishment of the Threatened Species Commissioner. Trees established through the Programme will provide vital
habitat for nationally listed threatened species. It will also have a real impact on the liveability of our cities and towns.
As our cities grow, we have a responsibility to ensure present and future generations have access to local bushland
and other green spaces. These green spaces provide opportunities for recreation and create communities that are
connected with the local environment. Trees reduce local air temperatures and combat the urban heat island effect
leading to lower energy usage and reduced air pollution.
Round One of the Programme’s grants component is available nationally. Through the Programme more broadly, the
Australian Government has also committed to greening the west of Melbourne, and improving the Cumberland
Conservation Corridor in Greater Western Sydney. In these two highly populated and rapidly growing areas, the
Programme will help to re-establish green corridors and urban forests within environments facing considerable urban
development pressures.
Recognising that best practice knowledge exists within communities, the Programme will support Projects that build
on and expand community knowledge through collaboration between established organisations and those building
their experience.
Under Round One of the Programme, a wide range of groups, organisations and individuals in the community are
encouraged to apply. This may include community groups, schools, landholders and land managers that intend to
plant trees in a range of urban, peri-urban and regional environments across Australia. Tree plantings may occur on
public or private land.
Funding recipients under the Programme will be responsible for carrying out site preparation, planting and ongoing
site maintenance. They will also be responsible for ensuring community support for the Project, including gaining the
support of landholders, complying with any relevant local regulations, such as fire management, and ensuring a high
standard of Project risk management.
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1.2
Delivery of the Programme
The Programme is administered by the Department and will be implemented through two streams.
 Stream 1 will provide grant funding to groups and individuals to carry out tree planting Projects that improve the
extent, condition and connectivity of native vegetation. Applications will be accepted from eligible groups,
individuals and organisations.
 Stream 2 will involve larger-scale revegetation through one or more service providers contracted by the
Australian Government. Monitor the Department’s website at www.nrm.gov.au/20-million-trees for information
on opportunities to be involved in this stream of the Programme.
These Guidelines are for Round One of the Programme’s grants component (Stream 1) only.
These Guidelines provide information to help potential Applicants prepare and lodge an Application for grant funding
under Stream 1. This information includes the Programme Objectives, Eligibility and Assessment Criteria and the
process used to assess and approve Projects.
The Department will assess Applications, with those best meeting the Assessment Criteria recommended to the
Minister for funding (see Part 5 for more details on this process). The Minister may select strategic or exceptional
projects from outside the competitive funding round described in these Guidelines, provided such projects meet the
Programme Objectives.
Successful Applicants will be contacted by the Department and offered funding under the terms of a formal Funding
Agreement. The Funding Agreement will cover roles and responsibilities of each party, payment milestones and
reporting requirements (see Part 6 for more information). The successful Applicant will be responsible for managing
and delivering the Project, including reporting progress to the Department.
Please check the Department’s website (www.nrm.gov.au/20-million-trees) for information on future funding rounds
under the Programme.
1.3
Grant funding available in Round One
Through Round One of the Programme, up to $3.4 million will be available over three years. The Department may run
subsequent rounds at its discretion, depending on timing and availability of funds.
Anticipated funding available
for Round One
2014–15
2015–16
2016–17
$2 million
$0.8 million
$0.6 million
A further amount of up to $5 million over three years will be available to deliver the Australian Government election
commitment to green the west of Melbourne. The timing of discretionary grant processes for election commitments
may coincide with Round One.
An additional amount of up to $5 million will be available to deliver the Australian Government election commitment to
improve the Cumberland Conservation Corridor in Greater Western Sydney.
7
If you have a Project proposal in these areas which is not part of an Australian Government election
commitment project, you are still eligible to apply through Round One.
Projects in Round One may request funding of between $20,000 and $100,000 with the following conditions:
 Projects with a budget of $60,000 or greater must have a Project timeframe of between 18 months and three
years (to 2016–17).
 Projects with a budget of less than $60,000 must be able to be completed within 18 months to be considered for
funding.
 All Projects must commence in 2014–15.
Funding amount
Project timeframe
$20,000 to $59,999
(GST exclusive)
Not more than 18 months in duration
$60,000 to $100,000
(GST exclusive)
From 18 months to three years in duration
The Department may adjust notional funding allocations based on the quality and variety of Applications received.
Please note that project years are financial years. Applicants should consider this when preparing their project
budgets.
It is possible that grant budget profiles may need to be adjusted in line with the Department’s budget considerations.
Applicants will be advised of any such budget changes before Funding Agreements are finalised.
Projects that also provide financial or in-kind contributions will be highly regarded in the Project’s value for money
assessment (Assessment Criterion 5 in Section 5.3).
1.4
Programme Objectives
The Programme will deliver against the following four Programme Objectives.
Objective One: 20 million trees—20 million trees and associated understorey by 2020.
The Programme aims to establish 20 million trees and understorey species by 2020 to improve local environmental
outcomes. The Programme will support the planting of mixed native species including trees, shrubs and understorey
species to re-establish and restore native vegetation.
The Programme will support Projects that establish native vegetation through planting tubestock (seedlings) or direct
seeding. Plantings should comprise of native species suitable to the site and region over the longer term, taking into
account changing climatic conditions. Consistent with best practice, Projects should also be underpinned by thorough
site preparation and a long term commitment to maintenance.
Trees and shrubs with a potential height of at least 2 metres when mature will count towards the 20 million tree target.
Understorey species will also be considered for funding to ensure that locally appropriate vegetation structures are
achieved. Projects only proposing to plant understorey species as part of their revegetation will not be supported. For
information about the height of individual species, refer to your local or state authority or visit the Atlas of Living
Australia website: www.ala.org.au
8
Objective Two: Environmental conservation—supporting local environmental outcomes by
improving the extent, connectivity and condition of native vegetation that supports native
species (including threatened species and threatened ecological communities).
Projects may contribute to one or more of the following elements of Programme Objective Two:
 improving the extent, condition and connectivity of native vegetation
 local environmental outcomes in urban areas
 species protection.
Improving the extent, condition and connectivity of native vegetation
The Programme aims to improve the extent, condition and connectivity of native vegetation, and contribute towards
re-establishing resilient and healthy natural landscapes.
Native vegetation is a critical element of the landscape and provides essential connectivity for native species and
ecosystems. Native vegetation binds and nourishes our soils; shelters and sustains wildlife; filters and protects
waterways; provides important agricultural benefits, and absorbs carbon from the atmosphere. However, native
vegetation in many parts of Australia continues to be adversely impacted through a legacy of extensive land clearing
and land use change. The impacts of land clearing are often compounded by degradation through grazing, and
additional threats such as pest animals, invasive weeds, plant diseases, erosion, soil salinity and pollution.
The Programme will aim to improve the extent and condition of native vegetation, and reconnect areas of important
natural habitat by supporting Projects that re-establish linkages and natural pathways such as wildlife corridors,
revegetate riparian zones which link aquatic and terrestrial environments or propose broader landscape-scale
revegetation approaches that achieve connectivity outcomes.
In the Application Form, Applicants should explain how their Project will enhance connectivity for particular species,
processes and/or ecological communities. Projects involving strategic revegetation to develop resilient linkages across
the Conservation Estate (refer to the glossary for a definition) and adjoining land may be highly regarded in
Assessment Criterion 1 (refer to Section 5.3).
Local environmental outcomes in urban areas
While Australia’s urban, peri-urban and regional areas contain highly modified landscapes, they also contain
substantial natural areas and environmental values with natural corridors and remnant vegetation patches providing
refuge for native plants and animals. Urban forests contribute towards air filtration, nutrient cycling, and can reduce
the urban heat island effect, where a built up metropolitan area experiences temperatures warmer than its surrounding
areas.
The Programme will aim to improve the liveability of our cities and towns by supporting Projects that will create urban
forests to moderate climate, while improving urban biodiversity and creating natural green spaces in urban settings.
Projects in urban areas may include activities that expand on or improve existing networks of urban parks and
reserves, bushland remnants or tree-lined creeks and river systems. These Projects should show how they will benefit
urban biodiversity in addition to providing benefits for the community.
Species protection
9
The Programme aims to have a positive impact on the local abundance, health and diversity of threatened species,
ecological communities and their habitat.
These activities may include (but are not limited to):
 improving the extent, condition and/or connectivity of threatened species and ecological communities
 re-establishing threatened flora species through revegetation
 revegetating or restoring suitable habitat for threatened fauna, including migratory species listed under the
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) (the EPBC Act)
 reinstating suitable natural food sources for native fauna (by planting key plant species).
Applications should be guided by national and state recovery plans, strategies, action statements, conservation
advices and similar documents that provide guidance on priority actions and target areas for the conservation of
threatened species and ecological communities. It is important to note that a permit may be required to collect,
propagate and plant threatened flora. Applicants should refer to relevant Commonwealth and state or territory
legislation prior to submitting an Application. Applicants may be required to provide documentation to the Department
upon request relating to such permits.
Applicants working with threatened species and/or threatened ecological communities are expected to show how they
will use expert knowledge, advice, assistance or relevant research in collecting, planting and propagating threatened
species, or preparing Project Sites for planting to avoid adverse impacts on threatened flora and fauna species.
Projects that include components focused on protecting or improving the extent and/or condition of state-listed or
regionally significant species and ecological communities may also be considered for funding through the Programme
if they demonstrate the Project will contribute to the Programme’s Objectives. Where Projects involve or may impact
on state-listed threatened species or threatened ecological communities, advice from State Government, Botanic
Gardens or scientists should be sought. Applicants may be required to provide evidence of this advice to the
Department upon request.
Objective Three: Community engagement—working cooperatively with the community
Community engagement can contribute to the long term success of revegetation activities. Revegetation activities
that actively engage the local community are more likely to be maintained by that community into the future. Through
the Programme, the Australian Government will support Projects that engage local communities and increase
awareness of the environmental and community benefits of revegetation, in both regional and urban environments.
Applications driven by partnerships between different sectors of the community, such as local government, schools,
businesses, community groups, Indigenous communities or NRM organisations, are encouraged where these
partnerships demonstrate strong community support for the Project.
It is preferable that Applicants show the Project is actively supported by the local community. Evidence of community
support could include letters from a local council, heritage organisation, Landcare group, or other community-based
organisation. Evidence of community support does not need to be attached to your Application, but must be available
if requested by the Department.
Engaging Indigenous communities
The Australian Government values Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s knowledge of, and relationship with,
country and recognises their contribution to protecting Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.
10
Where activities proposed in a Project will directly affect Indigenous sites, places, values or communities, Applicants
must be able to show the Project is supported by the relevant Traditional Owners and/or local Indigenous
organisation. Letters of support must be provided to the Department on request.
In consulting with Indigenous people, it may be appropriate to consult with:
 the Indigenous organisation or groups, which have legal responsibility as a key representative body for
managing the land
 the Traditional Owner/s who speak for the country where the work will occur
 Indigenous people, groups or organisations who have rights and obligations or Aboriginal heritage within an
area.
Objective Four: Carbon reduction—reducing Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions
The Programme will contribute to Australia reducing its greenhouse gas emissions.
The amount of carbon sequestered through the Programme will be dependent on several factors including planting
location, density, species composition and layout. The Department will determine the total amount of carbon
sequestered through the Programme, based on information collected from Project reports. The Department may use
remote sensing methods to monitor the carbon sequestered through the Programme over the long-term.
Applicants are not required to calculate how much carbon will be sequestered through their Project.
Part 2: Eligibility Criteria and Declarations
The Department will determine whether Applications meet the Eligibility Criteria set out below. Applications deemed
not to meet the Eligibility Criteria may be excluded from the Assessment Process.
2.1
Applicant eligibility
To be eligible, Applicants must:
a. be a legal entity, for instance:
 an individual
 a trustee of a trust
 a company
 a partnership where each of the partners are legal entities
 an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander organisation, council or incorporated association
 a government-related entity
 an incorporated association or cooperative society, and
b. either:
 have an Australian Business Number (ABN) and be registered for GST, if required to be registered by the
Australian Tax Office or
11
 provide a Statement by a Supplier prior to entering into a Funding Agreement with the Department, explaining
why the Project proponent is not required to have an ABN (using the template available on the ATO website
at https://www.ato.gov.au/Business/Australian-business-number/In-detail/Statement-by-a-supplier/).
Note: where the Applicant has authorised another entity to represent it for the purpose of involvement in the
Programme, written agreement from the Applicant entity for the other entity to act on their behalf regarding all aspects
of the Programme should be attached to the Application.
If the Applicant is a partnership, the person signing the Application must have authority to sign for and bind the
partners of the partnership jointly and severally. Evidence of the authority to sign on behalf of a partnership must be
attached to the Application.
Where a consortium of organisations wishes to make an Application, one legal entity must take overall responsibility
for the Application, as the Applicant, and be able to enter into a Funding Agreement with the Department if the
Application is successful.
Applicants must be willing and able to enter into the standard Funding Agreement with the Department (see Part 6 for
more information), submit an Application in the standard Application Form, and commit to monitor and report on their
Project as specified by the Department (refer to Part 7).
2.2
Applicant declarations
Applicants will be required to make declarations regarding their Application. Responses to declarations in eligible
Applications will be considered in the assessment process.
Application declarations may include, but will not be limited to, declarations to the effect that:
a. the Applicant has, or is able to obtain before Closing Time:
 the landholder’s/leaseholder’s written permission to use the Project Site and to carry out the Project Activities
 approval from any organisation, individual/s or traditional owners that the Applicant partners with or represents
on the Project
b. the Applicant has or is able to obtain, all necessary planning, permits, regulatory or other approvals, to ensure
all Project Activities are completed within the designated timeframe
c.
prior to a funding contract being finalised, the Applicant will:
 have no overdue reports or acquittals from previous Australian Government funding
 have, or will be able to obtain, an assurance from each organisation or individual the Applicant is partnering
with or representing on the Project, that they have no overdue reports or acquittals from previous Australian
Government funding
d. where the Applicant is an individual, the Applicant is an Australian citizen or permanent resident
e. none of the Activities proposed in the Application are required to be carried out by law (for example, as part of
an approval under Commonwealth, state or territory legislation, such as the provision of an environmental
offset under the EPBC Act)
f.
the Application only proposes Activities that are independent of and in addition to Activities that form part of
the business-as-usual practices and/or the legally required process of managing land such as pasture
improvement, planting for fodder, weed management (as required by state/territory law), harvesting for
commercial purposes, standard boundary fencing or fencing for production purposes. Business-as-usual does
not include the core business of environmental or conservation groups, organisations or individuals
g. none of the Activities proposed in the Application have already been undertaken or are substantially the same
activities as those funded by another initiative or programme (for example, state or territory funded tree
planting programmes or other Commonwealth programmes such as the Green Army). However, activities may
12
complement those activities being funded by another initiative or programme
h. none of the Activities proposed in the Application are likely to have a significant impact on any matter of
national environmental significance under the EPBC Act (which requires referral for approval).
2.3
Project eligibility
To be eligible, a Project must:
2.4

contribute towards one or more of the Programme Objectives outlined in Section 1.4

only consist of Eligible Activities as described in Section 2.4 below

be seeking Programme funding of between $20,000 and $100,000 (GST exclusive)

have a proposed Project timeframe of between one and three years with the Project to commence in 2014–
15, in line with those requirements set out in Part 1.3

include planting of native trees that will reach a potential height of at least 2 metres

be located within Australia and its territories.
Eligible activities
A list of eligible Project Activities is provided in Table 1 below.
Table 1: Eligible Project Activities
Revegetation activities
Planting seedlings
Activities involving planting native trees, shrubs and understorey species to
contribute to the Programme Objectives.
Direct seeding
Activities that involve the direct seeding of native tree, shrub and
understorey species to contribute to the Programme Objectives.
Additional activities that are eligible for funding where they directly support eligible
revegetation activities described above
Plant propagation
Activities that involve propagating native plants for planting at Project Sites.
Weed treatment
Activities that primarily involve physical, chemical or biological control of
plant weed species to directly benefit the Project’s revegetation investment.
Project Site
preparation
Activities primarily aimed at preparing a Project Site (excluding weed
treatment) for example, ripping soil for revegetation. Refer to Section 4.2 for
more information about Project Site preparation requirements of the
Programme.
Project Site
maintenance
Maintaining plantings, watering, follow up weed and pest control. Refer to
Section 4.2 for more information about Project Site maintenance
requirements of the Programme.

Within the proposed Project budget, Applicants may include funding for Project administration such as Project
planning, Project management meetings and running the Project, however, these costs must be 10 per cent or less
of total Project cost.

Applicants may also include funding for monitoring and reporting on Project progress and outcomes (including site
13
assessments, surveys and other standard reporting requirements outlined in Part 7), however these costs must be 5
per cent or less of total Project cost.
2.5
Activities that may be funded through other funding sources
Complementary activities such as seed collecting, fencing and community events will not be funded by the
Programme. However, Projects may include these activities where they are delivered using financial or in-kind
contributions, or where they are resourced through other Australian Government programmes (for example through
other components of the National Landcare Programme or the Green Army).
2.6
Activities that will not be funded through the Programme
The Programme will also not fund activities or asset purchases which:

are outside of Australia and its territories

do not contribute to revegetation activities

are not integral to achieving the Project Outcomes

are required to be carried out by law or by a private contractual obligation

are required as compliance or government business or are part of an approval under Commonwealth, state
or territory legislation, for example, the provision of an environmental offset under the EPBC Act

are for activities undertaken, or equipment or material purchased, as part of the business-as-usual practice
and/or legally required process of managing land such as pasture improvement, planting for fodder, weed
management as required by state/territory law or harvesting for commercial purposes. Business-as-usual
does not include the core business of environmental or conservation groups, organisations or individuals

are a potential or direct subsidisation of commercial activities, business start-up or other action where the
primary purpose is commercial gain

involve land acquisition

are for administrative or legal costs other than those directly relevant (for example, operational or legal costs
other than those directly relating to the delivery of the Project)

are for the purchase of major capital items with an individual cost of $10,000 (GST exclusive) or more. Major
capital items are defined as building improvements and items of equipment, furniture, vehicles, computer
hardware and software, media equipment and the like. Asset purchases below $10,000 (GST inclusive) must
contribute to achieving the Project Outcomes and will be considered in the context of the Project’s value for
money assessment. As a guide no more than 10 per cent of the total funds requested should be requested
for asset purchases. Leasing or hire of capital items is preferred

any eligible assets that are proposed to be purchased with Programme funds must be identified in the budget
table in the Application Form. Funding Recipients will be required to seek approval in writing from the
Department prior to using Programme funds for any additional eligible asset purchases not identified in the
original Application Form

include planting species (including native species) that are known to be, or could become, environmental or
agricultural weeds

are monoculture or ‘forestry’ plantings, which typically involve plantings of minimal species diversity or plants
not native to the Project Site

deliver a private benefit only, such as gardening or landscaping

do not deliver any ecological benefit, for example picnic tables, shelters or paving

are for the construction of nurseries or associated infrastructure

involve primarily monitoring, modelling or research based activities not part of or subordinate to an on-ground
Project

are primarily for political advocacy (for example, protesting for or against a development).
Part 3: Guidance for designing Projects
14
The information provided below provides guidance to help Applicants design their Project. This information should be
read in conjunction with the Eligibility Criteria outlined in Part 2.
3.1
What species should I plant?
Plantings should consist of naturally occurring trees, shrubs and associated understorey species appropriate to the
regional area, and be sourced from seeds within the natural regional distribution of the species. Projects that facilitate
local seed collection as an in-kind or financial contribution will be highly regarded in the Assessment Process. This
may include, for example, community participation in seed collecting and propagation activities that contribute to
achieving the Programme Objectives. Plantings should be appropriate to the biophysical characteristics of the Project
Site, reflect the structure and composition of the regional native vegetation community and, where appropriate,
provide habitat for threatened species. Trees should not be established in ecological communities where they would
not naturally form a part of the vegetation community such as in natural grasslands or herb-dominated wetlands.
Applicants will be required to provide an overview of the types of species, vegetation structure and diversity that will
be established by the Project in the Application Form.
Species should be suitable to the Project Site and region over the longer term, taking account of changing climatic
conditions. It is important to avoid creating potential invasive species problems by planting inappropriate species.
Using species from outside their normal range should only be undertaken with expert scientific advice and must be
well-justified in the Application.
3.2
Where can I carry out a Project?
Projects can take place in urban, peri-urban and regional areas, on both private and public land. Projects may involve
multiple landholders and land titles. Projects must occur within Australia or its territories. Applicants must have the
permission of the landholder to undertake a Project prior to submitting an Application and must be able to provide
written evidence of this permission, at the request of the Department. Applicants should ensure their Project Site is on
land where trees can be maintained into the future (see Section 4.2).
Projects may consist of one or more Project Sites within a Project area. A Project Site is a geographically defined area
where a revegetation method will be applied (for example, direct seeding). Applicants will be required to provide
location information, including site polygons, in their Application Form. Instructions on how to provide this information
will be included in the Application Form.
3.3
What information should I use to develop my Project?
Recognising the importance of using existing local knowledge, planning and expertise in Project planning, Applicants
are encouraged to refer to relevant environment or natural resource management (NRM) plans to identify local and
regional revegetation priorities. Such plans include, but are not limited to, regional Catchment Management or NRM
Plans, conservation advices, Species and Ecological Communities Recovery Plans, relevant Threat Abatement Plans,
Protected Area Plans of Management, Indigenous Land and Sea Country Plans, and urban planning strategies.
Applicants are encouraged to explain how their Project aligns with any relevant national environmental plans or
strategies (National Strategies) such as Australia’s Native Vegetation Framework 2012, or Australia’s Biodiversity
Conservation Strategy 2010–2030. These National Strategies support a strategic approach to maintaining Australia’s
natural infrastructure (refer to the Glossary for additional examples).
3.4
How do I count trees to be established through my Project?
15
Applicants will be required to provide a realistic estimate of the number of trees that will be established through their
Project. Applicants will also be required to provide an estimate of the numbers of plants and shrubs with a potential
height of less than 2 metres when mature to be established through the Project, in order to determine whether the
Project will establish appropriate vegetation structures.
The methods used to estimate tree numbers will vary, depending on the revegetation methods used, the information
below is provided to help Applicants in providing their estimates.
Planting
(for example,
tubestock)
Projects that involve planting will need to provide an estimate of the numbers of trees
and shrubs with an anticipated mature height of at least 2 metres to be established
through the Project. This estimate should account for any tree losses that may occur
based on average survival rates.
Applicants are required to either:


Direct
seeding
refer to a Benchmark Site (a site that best represents the target vegetation
community to be established by the Project) to support their estimate, or
provide details of how they calculated their estimate (for example, through
previous experience).
Projects that establish vegetation though direct seeding activities will need to provide
an estimate of the number of trees and shrubs with a mature height of at least 2
metres to be established through the Project. The estimate should not include trees
and shrubs that will be removed for thinning purposes (to achieve a natural stem
density) and should take into account average survival rates.
Applicants are required to either:


refer to a Benchmark Site (that is, a site that best represents the target
vegetation community to be established by the Project) to support their
estimate, or
provide details of how they calculated their estimate (for example, through
previous experience in direct seeding projects).
Successful Applicants will be required to report on the actual number of trees surviving through online progress
reports as described in Part 7 below, and in the plant survival survey activity form in the Department’s online reporting
tool. The Department may ask for further information, conduct Project Site visits or arrange inspections by third parties
from time to time to monitor the progress of the Project and its compliance with the Programme for seven years from
the termination or expiry of the Funding Agreement.
3.5
How long do the plantings need to remain for?
Plantings funded under the Programme should be maintained for at least 10 years to ensure that environmental and
carbon abatement benefits are sustained. Applicants are encouraged to explain in their Application how trees will be
maintained in the long term to achieve the Programme Objectives.
Projects that provide financial or in-kind contributions to protect plantings over the long term (for example, by installing
fencing at Project Sites to protect plantings from grazing) will be highly regarded in Assessment Criterion 2:
Commitment to ongoing management (refer to Section 5.3).
3.6
Do I need to account for tree survival?
16
Applicants need to account for tree mortality and ensure that, at a minimum, the contracted number of trees will be
established within the Project timeframe. The Programme will not provide additional future funds to cover tree losses.
For the purposes of the Programme, trees are considered to be established if they are living at the end of the Project.
The number of trees surviving at the end of the Project will be recorded as the number of trees that the Project has
contributed to the Programme. The Department may contact Recipients to confirm survival rates of plantings beyond
the life of the Project as specified in the Funding Agreement.
Applications should convey an understanding of average survival rates and show how this has been factored into the
number of trees the Project will establish.
Applicants can improve tree survival rates through supplementary watering and planting extra trees during the project
to cover predicted and actual losses. Planting and seeding techniques that maximise survival in dry periods should
also be considered. Projects that provide financial or in-kind contributions to cover plant losses will be highly regarded
in Assessment Criterion 2: Commitment to ongoing management (refer to Section 5.3).
3.7
Can my Project receive recognition under the Emissions Reduction Fund
or the Carbon Farming Initiative?
The Department will calculate the carbon abatement for all Projects funded through the Programme. However,
Projects will not receive recognition under the Emissions Reduction Fund, as they already being funded by the
Australian Government.
If you are interested in obtaining a tradeable carbon offset credit for your Project, for example through the Carbon
Farming Initiative (CFI), you can apply for this directly through a separate process. This process may require a more
robust assessment of your Project’s carbon abatement, consistent with CFI methodologies.
Information on eligibility requirements for the CFI, including information about CFI offset methodologies, is available
online at www.climatechange.gov.au/CFI.
The Assessment Process under the Programme and the CFI are independent assessment processes.
Part 4: What is required of Applicants?
4.1
Project planning and management
As an Applicant for funding under the Programme, you are required to:
 have the written consent of the property owner or property manager to implement the Project, where you do not
own or manage the Project Site/s
 have, where relevant, the support of the traditional owners and/or local Indigenous organisation and provide
evidence of this support to the Department on request
 ensure you have all necessary resources (that is, your financial and/or in-kind contributions) to undertake the
Project. This may include materials, equipment and technical advice/expertise
 ensure all necessary planning, regulatory or other approvals and/or permits are in place prior to the agreed date
of commencement, including approvals associated with the protection of Indigenous cultural heritage
 ensure your Project complies with all requirements set out in any applicable Commonwealth, state or territory,
or local government legislation and regulations
17
 provide a safe work environment, undertake a risk assessment for the Project, and identify appropriate
strategies for reducing or managing risks
 hold appropriate insurance, as relevant, during the whole Funding Agreement period and as long after as
required by the Funding Agreement
 facilitate local community support for and engagement in the Project as appropriate
 prevent grazing within the Project Site/s where such grazing would be detrimental to the establishment and
survival of trees.
Effective planning and management is essential to Project success. Applicants may be asked to declare in the
Application Form that they have fulfilled these requirements, and the Department will rely on those declarations in its
assessment of Applications. Where relevant, the Department may request evidence that these requirements have
been fulfilled at any time during the Assessment Process or, if an Application is successful, before or after a Funding
Agreement is entered into with the Applicant.
4.2
Project Site preparation and maintenance
Applications should demonstrate adequate capacity for Project Site preparation and ongoing maintenance. On some
Project Sites it may be necessary to undertake weed control before planting or seeding to ensure acceptable survival
rates. Where this occurs, a staged approach may be important so that works do not put local native species at risk. In
other places, Project Site maintenance before or during planting and subsequent post-planting weed control may be
adequate.
Applicants are expected to provide information on how they will make good on tree losses and how Project Outcomes
will be maintained into the future. Where significant plant losses occur within the Project timeframe, the Project Site must
be replanted or re-seeded to achieve the contracted number of trees. Applicants should demonstrate how they will
overcome any losses to ensure they fulfil the number of trees contracted in the Funding Agreement.
Applicants showing a long-term commitment to maintaining Project Sites, for example by providing in-kind
contributions to replace any trees lost beyond the life of the Project, will be highly regarded in Assessment Criterion 2:
Commitment to ongoing management (refer to Section 5.3).
Applicants showing a strong history of achieving long-term environmental outcomes, including ongoing maintenance
should include this information in their Application.
4.3
Risk management
Applicants should be aware of potential risks to the Project and be prepared to implement appropriate mitigation
strategies.
Applicants will be required to complete a Project risk assessment as part of the Application Form.
Work Health and Safety
Applicants will be required to implement high standards of work health and safety at all Project Sites to the maximum
extent possible, including providing a safe work environment and appropriate safety equipment for all Project
participants and ensuring safe access to Project Sites where work is being carried out. All parties must comply with
the relevant Commonwealth, state or territory work health and safety legislation.
Fire
18
It is a requirement that all Projects comply with all local planning regulations, including revegetation and fire
management, applicable to their Project. Applicants will be asked in the Application Form how they have adequately
considered fire risks in developing their Project. In addition to risks to the Project Site itself, consideration will need to
be given to property and assets, as well as human life and wellbeing.
Applicants should consult with their relevant local and state fire management authorities and plans prior to submitting
their Application. Applicants also need to check their Project is in accordance with national environmental law
regarding bushfire management. For more information refer to www.environment.gov.au/resource/bushfiremanagement-and-national-environment-law. If successful, Applicants will need to warrant in their Funding
Agreement that they will perform the Project in accordance with all applicable laws, including those relating to fire risk
management.
Climatic conditions
Loss of plants through hot, dry periods or drought is a significant risk to a Project’s success. Applicants need to
consider how plants will be maintained to survive, such as carrying out supplementary watering in dry seasons, and
must build necessary activities into their Project.
Permits
Projects need to comply with the relevant regulations for environmental works within their state or territory (for all
aspects of their Project, including for seed and plant collecting) as well as with Commonwealth regulations including
the EPBC Act.
For information about relevant state and territory regulations, check with the relevant state or territory authorities.
Consider the following aspects of your Project when researching which relevant permits may be required:
 weed control
 water interception
 working with threatened species and threatened ecological communities
 heritage values
 Indigenous cultural values
 land tenure (e.g. parks, reserves, Commonwealth areas)
 work health and safety laws.
Planning requirements
Project Sites should not be on land zoned for future development, on easements that may be excavated by utilities, or
where potential future disturbance is likely. Applicants should consult with their relevant local planning authorities prior
to submitting an Application, particularly if the Project will occur on public land. Applicants revegetating private land
may consider covenants and other mechanisms for promoting the permanence of plantings, and will be highly
regarded in the Assessment Process for doing so. Further information is available online at
www.environment.gov.au/topics/biodiversity/biodiversity-conservation/conservation-covenants.
Biosecurity
19
Applicants should consider any potential biosecurity risks (the risk of spreading pests and diseases) relevant to their
Project, and how these risks could be minimised. Biosecurity risks could include weeds, plant pathogens such as
Myrtle Rust, Phytophthora, insects or other pests. Applicants should consider appropriate actions to mitigate the risks
relevant to the Project area, for example sanitation measures (such as cleaning all field equipment prior to entering
any revegetation sites), safe disposal of weeds and other organic matter, and using appropriate plant propagation
practices. Refer to advice from relevant authorities such as the Australian Government Department of Agriculture,
state agencies or local government on appropriate management of biosecurity risks.
Part 5: Application and Assessment Process
5.1
How to apply
The Application period opens 2 October 2014 and closes 2.00 pm AEDT on 30 October 2014 (Closing Time).
Use the following process to submit an Application for funding under Stream 1 of the Programme:
a. Read these Guidelines.
b. Access the Application Form available at www.nrm.gov.au/20-million-trees
All application forms must be submitted via the online form unless otherwise agreed by the Department of the
Environment.
OR
c.
If you do not have access to the internet, request a hard copy Application Form by calling the Department on
1800 552 008.
Please note that each downloaded Application Form has a unique identifier embedded into it as a means
to exclude duplicate submissions. For each individual Project Application, a separate Application Form
will need to be downloaded from the online site.
d. Complete all aspects of the Application Form.
e. Submit the completed Application Form and required attachments only—no additional supporting
documentation should be submitted.
f.
Submit the Application Form online at www.nrm.gov.au/20-million-trees by 2.00 pm AEDT 30 October
2014. Keep a copy of your Application Form for your records.
If you are submitting a hard copy Application Form it must be received by the Department before 2.00 pm AEDT
30 October 2014. If you believe your Application may not arrive before this time, please contact the Department on
1800 552 008.
Hard copy Applications are to be addressed and delivered to:
Post:
20 Million Trees Programme
Biodiversity Conservation Division
Department of the Environment
GPO Box 787, CANBERRA ACT 2601
Courier deliveries to:
20 Million Trees Programme
Biodiversity Conservation Division
20
Department of the Environment
Reception, John Gorton Building
King Edward Terrace, PARKES ACT 2601
Where an Application is submitted by an organisation (that is, not an individual), submission of the Application Form
electronically will mean the Application Form is deemed to have been signed and approved by an authorised officer of
that organisation. Hardcopy Applications must be signed and approved by an authorised officer of the organisation
before submission.
Amendments to submitted Application Forms can only be made before the Application period closes. If you need to
alter your Application prior to the Closing Time, please contact the Department in writing by email on
20milliontrees@environment.gov.au
The Department may, at its sole discretion, extend the Application period. Any such extension will be communicated
via the Department’s website.
It is each Applicant’s responsibility to ensure all information required in the Application Form is received by the
Department before the Closing Time.
Applicants are responsible for all costs incurred in the preparation and lodgement of an Application and in respect of
any discussions, enquiries or any work undertaken prior to signing a Funding Agreement.
Departmental representatives are available to provide information on factual matters such as the Assessment Process
and Eligibility Criteria, clarification of terms, Programme Objectives, priorities or relevant information sources. If you
have any questions about the Application process or other aspects of the Programme, please contact the Department
on:
Phone: 1800 552 008
Email: 20milliontrees@environment.gov.au
5.2
Late Applications
Unless an alternative timeframe has been agreed to by the Department prior to the Closing Time, any Application
received by the Department after the Closing Time (if lodged electronically or delivered by post or courier), will be
considered late and will be registered separately. The Department may consider admitting late Applications under
extenuating circumstances. Any requests for an extension of time to lodge an Application must be made to the
Department prior to the Closing Time. These requests should be submitted in writing to:
20milliontrees@environment.gov.au
The Department has no obligation to accept a late Application. Any decision by the Department to accept or not
accept a late Application is at the Department’s absolute discretion and will be final.
5.3
Assessment Criteria
Where an Application is found to be eligible in accordance with the Eligibility Criteria described in Part 2, it will then be
assessed on the extent to which it addresses the Assessment Criteria in Section 5.3.1 below.
The following guidance under each Assessment Criterion is not intended to be prescriptive. Unless otherwise
indicated, Applicants are not necessarily required to meet all of the items specified for each Assessment Criterion.
When assessing Applications, Criterion 1 will be weighted more highly than Criteria 2, 3, 4 and 5.
21
5.3.1 20 Million Trees Assessment Criteria
Criterion 1—The Project aligns with 20 Million Trees Objectives
In assessing this criterion, consideration will be given to:
 How the Project will provide environmental conservation outcomes as described in Programme Objective Two
in Section 1.4 (improving the extent, condition and connectivity of native vegetation, local environmental
outcomes in urban areas and/or species protection).
 How the Project Activities, location, scale and landscape context will provide locally significant environmental
benefits and will appropriately address the relevant threats to the identified environmental assets.

If any threatened species or ecological communities listed under the EPBC Act are present at the
Project Site, the Application must demonstrate how the Project will be managed to ensure Project Activities
do not have a significant adverse impact on these matters.
 How any relevant environmental, NRM or conservation plans, projects, initiatives, programmes or advice have
been considered and incorporated into the design of the Project.

Examples of relevant plans and strategies are listed in Section 3.8.
 How the Project will engage the community to contribute to the long term success of the Project. This may
include for example, working cooperatively with the community through partnerships, engaging with a diverse
range of community groups and individuals, and ensuring the Project has an adequate level of community
support.
Criterion 2—Commitment to ongoing management
The extent the Application shows commitment to the ongoing management of the Project Site/s once a Project is
complete, with consideration given to:
 the degree to which ‘make-good’ provisions are in place to ensure the proposed tree numbers are achieved and
plant losses are made good, with these expenses to be met by the Applicant or incorporated into the Project
budget. Make good provisions may include replacing trees that do not survive, planting additional trees during
the Project to account for anticipated tree losses, or by carrying out infill planting where necessary.
 how the Project Site/s will be managed over time to maintain the Project Outcomes. This should include
managing relevant ongoing threats such as invasive species.
 additional commitments to the ongoing management of the Project through, for example, financial contributions,
other significant in-kind contributions from third parties or Project partners, a commitment to long term
ecological monitoring or secure Project Site tenure arrangements such as conservation covenanting
agreements.
Criterion 3—Capacity of Applicant to deliver
In assessing this criterion, consideration will be given to:
 how the governance arrangements for the Project are appropriate to the scale and type of project, and how the
Applicant will deliver the Project Outcomes on time and within budget. If relevant, how any collaboration
between Project partners and/or across multiple tenures will be managed.
22
 the extent of the Applicant’s past experience in efficiently and effectively delivering environmental projects,
including government grants, and how the Applicant’s skills, capacity and resources (including any specialist
technical support) will successfully deliver the Project.
Criterion 4—Risk management
The Application must show:
 - that potential risks to the Project have been considered and appropriate mitigation strategies prepared. Key
Project delivery risks that must be considered include workplace health and safety, fire management, lower than
expected survival rate of plantings and climatic conditions.
Criterion 5—Value for public money
The Application should show that the total Project budget represents good value for public money, taking into account:
 the amount of funding sought for the Project.
 whether budget items are reasonable and relevant to Project Activities and Project Outcomes for each Project
Site and apply only to eligible Project Activities (see Section 2.4 for eligible Project Activities).
 the average cost per tree (that is, for trees above 2 metres tall at maturity).
 the level of financial and/or in-kind cash contribution to be provided by the Applicant, Project partners, third
parties or other sources and that these are relevant and reasonable.
5.4
Assessment Process
Receipt and registration
Once an online Application is submitted, an automatic receipt will be generated. For hard copy applications,
notification will be confirmed by the Department between seven and 14 days of receipt by the Department.
Eligibility check
All Applications will be screened by the Department to confirm whether the Eligibility Criteria (in Part 2 of these
Guidelines) have been met. Applications that do not meet all of the Eligibility Criteria may not be eligible for funding
under the Programme.
Assessment of Applications
Applications will be assessed by the Department against the Assessment Criteria in Section 5.3.1 of these Guidelines.
The Australian Government is committed to a fair and transparent Assessment Process.
Each Application will be assessed by at least two assessors, who will be Australian Government staff with necessary
expertise and technical specialisation as required. Advice may be sought from within the Department, or across the
Australian Government, as required. This advice may include spatial information or other data held by the Australian
Government that is relevant to the Assessment Process. All assessors will be required to sign conflict of interest
declarations and comply with the Australian Public Service Code of Conduct.
A Moderation Panel consisting of Departmental officials and an Independent Chair will consider the assessed
Applications before providing recommendations to the Minister.
23
The Moderation Panel may consider Applications in the context of:
 effective partnerships and collaboration in achieving biodiversity outcomes across the landscape;
 whether proposed Projects complement and support other proposed Projects submitted in the round;
 the geographic distribution of proposed Projects across Australia;
 the spatial and environmental context, including climatic factors;
 a mix of urban, peri urban and regional Projects;
 a representation of a range of Applicants and Applicant types;
 a mix of short and longer term Projects;
 the funding available for Projects within the Programme, including in the context of previous commitments made
by the Australian Government, and other Departmental objectives and priorities.
The Department may contact Applicants during the Assessment Process to seek clarification about their Application,
especially where the information provided in the Application is ambiguous or where contradictory statements are
made, or to request evidence in support of any declaration made in the Application (see Section 4.1). The Department
reserves the right to accept or disregard additional information provided by the Applicant and will not allow responses
which materially improve or amend an Applicant’s original Application.
The Department reserves the right at its absolute discretion to exclude from further consideration Applications that do not
contain sufficient information on which to make an assessment.
Selection and notification
The Minister will make the final decision on successful Projects.
In making the final decision, the Minister will take into account advice from the Department and may consider other
sources of advice to inform this decision. In selecting proposals to receive funding, the Minister may select strategic or
exceptional projects from outside the competitive funding round described in these Guidelines, provided such projects
meet the Programme Objectives.
Where the Programme is oversubscribed, Applications which are considered suitable will be funded in order of merit
to the limit of the grant funds available.
The Department will notify unsuccessful Applicants in writing. All Applicants will be given the opportunity to receive
written or other feedback on their application, provided a request in writing is made within one month of public notice
of successful projects. Unsuccessful (but not ineligible) Applicants will be able to reapply in any subsequent funding
rounds of the Programme (see Section 1.3). Details of successful Projects will be listed on the Department’s website
once successful Applicants have been informed.
All decisions on successful Projects are final and there is no right of appeal. However, the Department may, at its
discretion, revisit a funding recommendation process in exceptional circumstances. Please refer to Part 9 for
information on the Department’s complaints procedures.
Part 6: Funding Agreement requirements
A Funding Agreement is a legally enforceable, performance-based contract between the Department and a successful
Applicant that sets out the terms and conditions governing the funding to be provided to the successful Applicant
24
under the Programme. All Project funding payments are subject to the successful Applicant entering into and
complying with the terms and conditions of a Funding Agreement.
The Department will enter into a Funding Agreement with each successful Applicant (referred to in Parts 6 and 7 as
the Recipient). A Recipient will be legally responsible for ensuring all of the obligations under the terms and
conditions of the Funding Agreement are met. The Department may withdraw the offer of funding to any successful
Applicant if the Funding Agreement is not signed by the successful Applicant within the timeframe determined by the
Department. The payment of funding is contingent on the Recipient achieving prescribed milestones as set out in the
Funding Agreement.
Recipients will be required to acknowledge the Government’s support and funding where applicable.
An example draft Funding Agreement is available at: www.nrm.gov.au/20-million-trees and sets out the proposed
terms and conditions of receiving funding under the Programme.
Applicants are expected to read the example Funding Agreement in conjunction with these Guidelines and
familiarise themselves with all its terms and conditions.
Without limiting the need for Applicants to read the example Funding Agreement, some key requirements of
the Funding Agreement include:
Reporting
The Funding Agreement will require Recipients to regularly report to the Department on Project progress,
implementation of the Project Activities and Project Outcomes via the Department’s online reporting tool (see Part 7
for more information).
Payments
Payments will be linked to reporting requirements stipulated in the Funding Agreement. Draft reporting templates will
be available online at: www.nrm.gov.au/20-million-trees
The Department will monitor the progress of Projects by assessing these reports and by conducting Project Site visits
where necessary. The Department may defer, reduce, or not make payments if the Recipient has not achieved a
milestone or carried out the Project to the Department’s satisfaction.
A successful Applicant must not commence work on the Project before a Funding Agreement is executed with the
Department. Payments will not be backdated for activities that commenced before the execution of the Funding
Agreement, and no payments will be made unless a Funding Agreement has been executed. The Funding Agreement
will include provision for the Department to seek repayment of funds that are found not to have been spent in
accordance with the purposes specified in the Funding Agreement.
Project delays
In the event of Project delays the Funding Agreement will require the Recipient to notify the Department in writing of
the delay, setting out the reason for the delay and the method and timeline for rectification of the delay. The
Department will work with Recipients to ensure that, wherever possible, delays can be rectified and do not result in the
termination of the Project.
Project review
25
If, during the life of the Funding Agreement, a Recipient organisation undergoes a significant change to its
organisational structure, resources, or circumstances, such as an amalgamation with another organisation, the
Department may carry out a review and assess whether the Project governed by a Funding Agreement continues to
represent value for money. Following that review, the Department may:
 reduce the amount of funding payments or the scope of the Project to help complete the Project efficiently
 terminate the relevant Funding Agreement if the Project is no longer considered to represent value for money.
Taxation
Payments may give rise to assessable income. The amount, if any, included in assessable income will depend on the
circumstances of each Recipient, and the precise terms and conditions under which the entitlement arises. Applicants
are encouraged to seek prior independent legal and financial advice about the implications of receiving funding under
the Programme before entering into a Funding Agreement with the Department.
Insurance and indemnity requirements
Successful Applicants must ensure that, at the time of entering into the Funding Agreement the relevant legal entity
holds the required insurance(s) for the level and duration specified in the Funding Agreement. The Department may
require the Recipient to provide copies of the relevant certificates of currency for their insurance.
Document retention
A condition of funding will be that Recipients retain records and accounts as specified in the Funding Agreement.
Part 7: Monitoring and reporting
The Australian Government requires monitoring and reporting for all environment and NRM programmes. The
Programme aims to streamline how each Recipient monitors and reports on their Project’s progress and outcomes.
Monitoring and reporting requirements are detailed on the website at www.nrm.gov.au/funding/meri
7.1
Project monitoring and reporting
Recipients are required to provide the following information and reports to the Australian Government, and additional
information on request:
 an online Project activity schedule when the Project begins using the Department’s online reporting tool
 an online progress report every six months during the Project. Some of this information may be made available
to the public
 financial reports
 a final project report, due within eight weeks of the agreed completion date for the Project, including additional
questions which will contribute to the Department’s review of the Programme.
Recipients will be required to map their Project Sites and monitor and report on Project Activities and Outcomes.
Project information such as the outputs, outcomes and location of Project Activities may be made public in line with
26
the Principles on open public sector information, available at www.oaic.gov.au/information-policy/informationpolicy-resources/information-policy-agency-resources/principles-on-open-public-sector-information
Up to five per cent of the funding received by a Recipient may be used for monitoring and reporting activities. This
budget should be justified in your Application Form.
Meeting the required reporting obligations within the given timeframe is compulsory to ensure the continuation of
funding.
Projects that demonstrate a commitment to long-term ecological monitoring may be highly regarded in the
Assessment Process.
7.2
Programme monitoring and reporting
Project reporting will be complemented by monitoring initiatives undertaken by the Australian Government to evaluate
investments at a Programme level. This may include on ground monitoring by third parties or using remote sensing to
determine carbon and environmental outcomes.
7.3
How will Projects be acquitted?
As a recipient of public monies, Recipients are obliged to report on the financial and practical progress of the Project
undertaken. This will involve an independent qualified accountant examining the Project’s records annually and
certifying that all funds have been expended in accordance with the Funding Agreement. Once the Project is
completed, Recipients must acquit their Project. Applicants should consider this when preparing their Project budgets.
Final acquittal is required within eight weeks of the agreed completion date for the Project.
7.4
Evaluation of the Programme
An evaluation by the Department will determine how funding awarded under the Programme has achieved the
Programme Objectives. Funding recipients will be required to provide information to assist this evaluation, as
stipulated in the Funding Agreement. This information will be obtained through regular monitoring and reporting as
required by the Programme and will not result in costs to the Applicant above the five per cent maximum allocated in
Project budgets for this purpose.
Part 8: Rights and responsibilities
8.1
Applicants
It is the responsibility of the Applicant to:
 fully and properly inform themselves of the requirements of the Programme, these Guidelines and the
Application process
 ensure their Application is complete and accurate as the Department is not obliged to request additional or
missing information
 ensure their Application is received by the Department before the Closing Time
27
 identify any information contained within their Application, which they consider should be treated as confidential
and provide reasons for the request (noting the Department will not be in breach of any confidentiality
obligations where disclosure is required as outlined further in Section 8.3 below)
 keep a copy of their Application and attachments for their records
 after submitting their Application, inform the Department of any changes to their circumstances, which may
affect their Application or eligibility for funding under these Guidelines.
If an Applicant is successful in obtaining funding, it is the Applicant’s responsibility to ensure they hold the required
insurance(s) at the time of entering into the Funding Agreement and before Project Activities commence. The
Department may require the Applicant to provide copies of the relevant certificates of currency for their insurance at
any time during the term of the Funding Agreement (and beyond as applicable).
Applicants are also required to declare in the Application Form where any actual, apparent, or potential conflicts of
interest exists or might arise in relation to: their Application; the proposed Project; or, any Funding Agreement they
may enter into with the Department.
A conflict of interest may exist, for example, if the Applicant or any of its personnel:
 has a relationship (whether professional, commercial or personal) with a party who is able to influence the
application assessment process, such as a departmental staff member
 has a relationship with, or interest in, an organisation, which is likely to interfere with or restrict the Applicant in
carrying out the proposed activities fairly and independently
 has a relationship with, or interest in, an organisation from which they will receive personal gain as a result of
the granting of funding under the programme.
The Applicant’s participation in any stage of the Application process, or in relation to any matter concerning the
process, is at the Applicant’s sole risk, cost and expense. The Australian Government will not be responsible for any
costs or expenses incurred by an Applicant in preparing or lodging an Application or in taking part in the Application
process. Funding Recipients will be fully responsible for implementing and delivering their Projects funded under the
Programme.
The Australian Government will not accept responsibility for any misunderstanding arising from the failure by the
Applicant to comply with these Guidelines, or arising from any discrepancies, ambiguities, inconsistencies or errors in
their Application or in these Guidelines.
Applicants are entirely responsible for the accuracy of all information submitted in their Application. If Applicants
knowingly provide inadequate, false or misleading information, the Application may be excluded from the Assessment
Process.
If an Applicant discovers any material discrepancy, ambiguity, inconsistency or errors in their submitted Application,
they must immediately bring it to the attention of the Department by emailing 20milliontrees@environment.gov.au
Applicants should be aware that giving false or misleading information is a serious offence under the Criminal Code
Act 1995 (Cth).
8.2
The Australian Government’s rights
The Australian Government reserves the right to amend these Guidelines by whatever means it may determine in its
absolute discretion and will, where possible, provide reasonable notice of these amendments. The Australian
28
Government also reserves the right to vary, suspend or terminate the Assessment Process at any time and in its
absolute discretion.
The Department will ensure all staff involved in the Assessment Process declare and address any actual, perceived or
potential conflict of interest prior to providing any advice or assessment.
8.3
Confidentiality and privacy
Applicants must identify any information contained within their Application, which they consider should be treated as
confidential and provide reasons for the request.
The Department will only consider a request for confidentiality where:
 the information to be protected is identified in specific rather than global terms
 the information is by its nature confidential and
 disclosure would cause detriment to the parties concerned.
The Department is subject to the legislative and administrative accountability and transparency requirements of the
Australian Government, including disclosure to the Parliament and its Committees. Notwithstanding any obligation of
confidentiality, the Department may disclose, or allow at any time the disclosure of, any information contained in or
relating to any Application:
a. to its advisers, employees or internal management for purposes related to the Application and Assessment
Processes, including to evaluate or otherwise assess Applications and manage any resultant Funding
Agreement
b. to the responsible Minister
c.
in response to a request by a House or a Committee of the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia
d. within the Department, or with another agency, where this serves the Australian Government’s legitimate
interests
e. where the information is authorised or required by law to be disclosed, noting that information submitted to the
Australian Government is subject to the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth) and its requirements
f.
where the information is already in the public domain otherwise than due to a breach of any relevant
confidentiality obligation by the Australian Government.
In submitting an Application, Applicants consent to the Department using the information submitted for the above
mentioned purposes, for administering the Programme, any other relevant programmes and any other incidental or
related purpose.
Applicants should be aware if they are successful, Commonwealth policy requires the Department to publish
information on its website about Recipients, including but not limited to the:
a. name of the person or entity receiving the funding
b. title and purpose of the Project
c.
amount of funding awarded
d. term of the funding
e. funding location.
By submitting an Application for funding under the Programme, the Applicant consents to publication of the above
information by the Department if they are awarded funding under the Programme.
29
The Department will store and use the personal information collected by it in compliance with its obligations under the
Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). Applicants may access or correct personal information by either emailing the Department at:
20milliontrees@environment.gov.au or sending a letter to the Department’s postal address (see Part 9).
In accordance with the Funding Agreement, recipients will be required to acknowledge Australian Government
support. Any signage, communication products or publications related to the Project must contain an
acknowledgement as reasonably required by the Department.
Part 9: Enquiries and complaints
All enquiries will be handled consistent with the Department’s Service Charter 2014–16, available from the
Department’s website www.environment.gov.au
If an Applicant is dissatisfied with the way their Application has been handled by the Department, the Applicant can
lodge a complaint by contacting the Department via 20milliontrees@environment.gov.au or by mail to:
20 Million Trees Programme
Biodiversity Conservation Division
Department of the Environment
GPO Box 787 CANBERRA ACT 2601
The complaint will be managed in line with the Department’s Complaints Management Policy. The Department is
committed to consistent, fair and confidential handling of complaints and to resolving complaints as quickly as
possible. Feedback and complaints will be handled impartially and in a confidential manner.
Part 10: Contact details
For more information about the Programme visit:
www.nrm.gov.au/20-million-trees
Email questions about the Application process to 20milliontrees@environment.gov.au or phone 1800 552 008.
For more information about the Australian Government’s Cleaner Environment Plan, visit:
www.environment.gov.au/cleaner-environment
Part 11: Useful references
Monitoring and reporting
 Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Improvement Strategy:
www.nrm.gov.au/funding/meri/index.html
30
National Strategies
 Australia’s Native Vegetation Framework:
www.environment.gov.au/resource/australias-native-vegetation-framework
 Australia’s Biodiversity Conservation Strategy 2010–2030:
www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/publications/strategy-2010–30/index.html
 Strategy for Australia’s National Reserve System 2009–2030:
www.environment.gov.au/node/21198
Matters of National Environmental Significance—lists, tools and plans
Ramsar-listed wetlands
 Information on Ramsar wetlands, management plans and ecological character descriptions:
www.environment.gov.au/topics/water/water-our-environment/wetlands/ramsar-convention-wetlands
World Heritage areas
 Information on Australia’s World Heritage areas:
www.environment.gov.au/topics/heritage/about-australias-heritage/world-heritage
Threatened species and ecological communities
 Threatened species and ecological communities:
www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/index.html
 Threatened species and ecological communities listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) (the EPBC Act):
www.environment.gov.au/epbc/protect/species-communities.html
 Key threatening processes listed under the EPBC Act:
www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicgetkeythreats.pl
 Threat abatement plans established under the EPBC Act:
www.environment.gov.au/topics/biodiversity/threatened-species-ecological-communities/threatabatement-plans
 Recovery plans established under the EPBC Act:
www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/recovery-list-common.html
 Migratory species listed under the EPBC Act:
www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicshowmigratory.pl
 Conservation advice by NRM region:
www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/conservationadvice.pl?proc=main
 Protected matters search tool:
www.environment.gov.au/erin/ert/epbc/index.html
 Atlas of Living Australia:
www.ala.org.au/
31
 Managing national heritage places:
www.environment.gov.au/heritage/management/national/index.html
 Regional natural resource management plans, issues for the region and contact information:
www.nrm.gov.au/about/nrm/regions/index.html
 Australian Natural Heritage Assessment Tool (including regional biodiversity summaries):
www.environment.gov.au/heritage/anhat/index.html
 Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia:
www.environment.gov.au/topics/water/water-our-environment/wetlands/australian-wetlandsdatabase/directory-important
Exotic and invasive species
Feral animals
 Australian Pest Animal Strategy:
www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/publications/pest-animal-strategy.html or
www.apas.net.au/
 Feral animals in Australia:
www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/ferals/index.html
Invasive plants
 The Australian Weeds Strategy:
www.weeds.org.au/docs/The Australian Weeds Strategy.pdf
 Weed spread and management action maps:
www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/weeds/index.html
 Atlas of Living Australia:
www.ala.org.au/australias-species/
 Weeds of national significance and other lists of weeds of national interest:
www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/weeds/weeds/lists/index.html
 Weed management plans, training, weeds facilitator contacts:
www.weeds.org.au/
 Further information on core attributes for surveying and mapping nationally significant weeds:
www.environment.gov.au/node/14124
Part 12: Glossary
Term
Definition
Benchmark
Site
A site that best represents the target native vegetation community to be
established by the Project, relative to the average characteristics of a mature and
long undisturbed patch of the same vegetation type.
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Term
Definition
Biodiversity
Biodiversity is the variability among living organisms from all sources (including
terrestrial, aquatic, marine and other ecosystems and the ecological complexes of
which they are part), at all levels of organisation, including genetic diversity,
species diversity and ecosystem diversity.
Business-asusual
(environmenta
l stewardship)
Business-as-usual activities are those undertaken as part of the usual practice
and/or legally required process of managing land, i.e. the activities undertaken in
the day to day land management. Such activities may include pasture
improvement, weed reporting and management as required by state law, or
fencing for stock. Business-as-usual does not include the core business of
environmental or conservation groups, organisations or individuals.
Condition (of
native
vegetation)
The capacity of a native vegetation community to support the full range of native
species that might be expected to use a stand of vegetation of a particular type
under natural circumstances. Any native vegetation patch can be assessed
relative to the average characteristics of a mature and long undisturbed patch of
the same vegetation type (a benchmark or reference state).
Connectivity
The capacity of landscapes or aquatic environments to allow ecological movement
and function. The broad concept can be considered to have several main
elements:




landscape connectivity—the physical connection between areas with
vegetation cover across a landscape
habitat connectivity—the connection between patches of habitat suitable to
particular species
ecological connectivity—the ecological processes that underpin the
function of landscapes; for example, the transfer of pollen or seeds and the
sequestration of soil carbon
evolutionary connectivity—populations of species are able to interact
naturally, sharing genes and adapting to changing environmental
conditions.
Conservation
advice
Conservation advice provides guidance on immediate recovery and threat
abatement activities that can be undertaken to ensure the conservation of a newly
listed threatened species or ecological community under the EPBC Act.
Conservation advice includes practical on-ground activities that can be
implemented by local communities, natural resource management groups or
interested individuals, such as landholders. It can also include broader
management actions which can be undertaken by organisations such as local
councils, government agencies or non-government organisations, to protect the
species or ecological community on a regional level
(www.environment.gov.au/topics/biodiversity/threatened-species-ecologicalcommunities/conservation-advices).
Conservation
covenant
A voluntary agreement made between a landholder and an authorised body (such as
a Covenant Scheme Provider) that aims to protect and enhance the natural, cultural
and/or scientific values of certain land. The owner continues to own, use and live on
the land while the natural values of an area are conserved by the landholder in
partnership with the Covenant Scheme Provider.
See www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/incentives/covenants for a list of
Covenant Scheme Providers.
33
Term
Definition
Conservation
Estate
The Conservation Estate includes areas that are managed for long-term
environment and heritage conservation purposes. For example, National Reserve
System properties such as Indigenous Protected Areas and National Parks,
private properties managed under conservation covenant agreements, Ramsar
wetland and World Heritage areas.
Corridors
Corridors or wildlife corridors are connections across the landscape between
habitat patches used by organisms. Such corridors represent one way of
achieving various types of connectivity across landscapes, meeting the diverse
needs of organisms at multiple scales. They allow short-term movement of
organisms seeking resources and breeding opportunities, long-term change in the
distribution of organisms (for example, following suitable climatic conditions), and
ongoing ecological processes that underpin healthy environments.
Ecological
communities
Ecological communities are naturally occurring groups of plants and animals. Their
species composition can be determined by factors such as soil type, position in
the landscape, climate and water availability.
Ecosystem
services
The functions of natural ecosystems that maintain the atmosphere; provide clean
water; control soil erosion, pollution and pests; pollinate plants; and provide many
other essential processes. The functioning of natural ecosystems provides
services essential to human survival.
Endemic
species
Species that evolved in the particular location and often not naturally found
elsewhere.
EPBC Act
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth), Australia’s
national environment legislation.
Green Army
The Green Army is a hands-on, practical, grassroots environmental action
programme that supports local environment and heritage conservation projects
across Australia. The programme provides opportunities for young Australians
aged 17–24 years to gain training and experience in environmental and heritage
conservation fields and explore careers in conservation management, while
participating in projects that generate real benefits for the environment.
The Australian Government has allocated $525 million to the programme over four
years from 1 July 2014.
In-kind
contributions
A non-cash input which can be assigned a cash value. This could include labour,
or use of machinery or equipment, among other things.
Invasive
species
Non-native plants or animals that have adverse environmental or economic effects
on the regions they invade; species that dominate a region due to a loss of natural
predators or controls.
Key
threatening
process
A process, listed under the EPBC Act that threatens or may threaten the survival,
abundance or evolutionary development of a native species or ecological
community. For more information, see
www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/ktp.html
Make-good
provisions
Make-good provisions require parties to fulfil their obligations through alternative
means where they are unable to satisfy the original terms of the contract.
34
Term
Definition
Make-good provisions could be triggered if a proponent is unable to deliver trees
through their Project.
National
Landcare
Programme
The Australian Government’s key natural resource management initiative. The
Australian Government is investing $1 billion over four years through the National
Landcare Programme in initiatives including the 20 Million Trees Programme; the
Whale and Dolphin Protection Plan; the Kimberley Cane Toads Clean Up and
Biosecurity Incursion Management.
National
Strategies
Australia’s national biodiversity policies including:
Natural asset
Naturally occurring species, ecosystems, environmental characteristics and
ecological processes on which human and other life depends. It includes all
biodiversity (produced or wild), water, lands areas, soil and air.
Natural
infrastructure
The interconnected network of natural assets needed to maintain and support
ecosystems and human life. They provide a wide array of environmental, health
and economic benefits such as reducing climate change impacts and sustaining
clean air and water.
NRM region
Natural resource management regions are based on catchments or bioregions.
The Australian Government, in association with state and territory governments,
has identified 54 regions covering all of Australia.
A list of natural resource management regions and contacts is provided at:
www.nrm.gov.au/about/nrm/regions/index.html
Peri-urban
Found at the expanding margins of urban areas. They can have characteristics of
urban and rural areas.
Public land
Land owned by a government entity or government-related entity, except where
such land is leasehold land (i.e. the subject of a 99 year lease or a pastoral lease).
Ramsar
The intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and
international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their
resources.
Regional
For the purposes of the Programme, regional refers to all land outside of urban
and peri-urban areas, including remote areas.
Remnant
native
vegetation
One or more areas of largely intact (structurally and/or compositionally) native
vegetation that remains after the removal (usually by clearing) of parts of a natural
area. Definitions of remnant vegetation may vary from state to state, defined under
relevant legislation.
Resilience
Resilience of an ecosystem refers to its capacity to adapt to changes and
disturbances, yet retain its basic function and structures.





Australia’s Biodiversity Conservation Strategy 2010–2030
Australia’s Native Vegetation Framework (2012)
Australia’s Strategy for the National Reserve System 2009–2030
the Australian Pest Animal Strategy (2007)
the Australian Weeds Strategy (2007).
35
Term
Definition
Revegetation
The re-establishment of vegetation in areas that have been cleared or highly
modified. Revegetation methods include planting tubestock and direct seeding.
Terrestrial
Ecosystems that are not aquatic or marine.
Threat
Abatement
Plans
These plans provide for the research, management, and any other actions
necessary to reduce the impact of a listed key threatening process on native
species and ecological communities. Implementing the plan should assist the long
term survival in the wild of affected native species or ecological communities.
36