The NSW Government has announced $600,000 in funding to help transform the streets, parks, and public spaces of Ettalong, Umina and Woy Woy into cooler, greener environments as part of its Greening our City program.
The funding will allow Central Coast Council to deliver 360 trees and 1,500 square metres of biodiverse understorey planting, creating more liveable and climate-resilient communities on the Peninsula.
As part of funding round five, eight projects across the Central Coast, Hunter, and Illawarra-Shoalhaven will receive more than $3 million to plant more than 12,000 trees and 14,500 square metres of understorey planting.
It’s the first time the program – which targets councils in fast-growing areas where urban greening will make the biggest difference for growing populations – has been expanded beyond Greater Sydney.
“This is another example of the Minns Labor Government helping create high-quality green spaces,” said Planning Minister, Paul Scully.
“Greening our City delivers beautiful public spaces where people can relax and play in cooler, more liveable communities.
“This grant will make the Central Coast a greener and more enjoyable place to live, work and visit.”
Almost 90% of plantings in the current round will go into sites that have less than 20% canopy cover, the Minister said.
Since 2019, the program has awarded $46.8 million to 164 greening projects across Greater Sydney Central Coast, the Hunter and the Illawarra-Shoalhaven to build climate resilience, improve air quality, and connect communities with nature.
The program is funded by the NSW Climate Change Fund and administered by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, with applications assessed by an independent panel and overseen by a probity advisor.
A list of successful applicants is available on the NSW Government website.
