Wildlife Recovery Fund Grants Program

Re-establishing habitat for wildlife in South Australia’s bushfire affected landscapes.

The Wildlife Recovery Fund – a Nature Foundation and state government initiative – was established to help fund projects that promote recovery and increase resilience of vital habitats damaged or destroyed by fire.

The fund was opened early this year in response to fires in the Tooperang and Deep Creek regions of South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula. Both experienced significant impacts on native habitats that support a wealth of native and threatened flora and fauna.

Supported by generous donors, the Wildlife Recovery Fund offers a meaningful chance for research and recovery projects to make a real difference in restoring habitats and supporting native species. Applications are now open for projects that can contribute to the recovery and resilience of fire-affected areas.

Funding is available for activities such as fence repair, weed control, habitat restoration, erosion control, feral/pest animal control, research and monitoring, all aimed at supporting the recovery and resilience of fire-impacted habitats and native flora, particularly threatened species in South Australia.

There are two funding streams available: 

1. 4 x $10,000 management and monitoring grants for private landholders or registered South Australian organisations
2. 2 x $3,000 research grants for Honours students enrolled at an Australian University

Please see full details in the Grant Guidelines below, including eligibility criteria, application steps, and required documentation to assist you in preparing your submission.

Key dates:

• Applications open: Now, apply online via the form link below
• Applications close: 5pm ACST Monday 14/09/2026
• Assessment period: Late September 2026
• Successful applicants announced: October 2026
• Projects begin: October 2026

Most Australian ecosystems have evolved alongside fire and can recover over time. Still, in fragmented landscapes, species can be at risk of disappearing locally if a single fire affects too much of their habitat and other threats are not managed.

We look forward to receiving applications and supporting recovery and research efforts for the Fleurieu Peninsula and beyond.

Please read full Grant Guidelines here
Submit your Project Application online here