Thousands of Aussies in one state are eligible for a $150 cash boost simply by making their gardens greener.
In our fast-growing capital cities, tree cover is declining. Of all major cities, Perth has the lowest tree canopy, hovering under 20 per cent compared to the recommended 30 per cent.
Rapid urban expansion and devastating environmental threats like the polyphagous shot-hole borer have contributed to the decline — but now the government is fighting back.
The program is called “Treebate” and is run by Western Australia’s Department of Water and Environmental Regulation.
It’s aimed at getting more Aussies to plant native trees on their private property.
“Treebate has a simple mission: Helping to make our neighbourhoods greener, unlocking a range of social, economic and environmental benefits for the entire community,” a statement from the department reads.
A tree in a Perth backyard impacted by invasive shothole borer. Source: Joanne Taggat/West Australian
Why are WA residents getting paid to plant trees?
Treebate is a $6.9 million initiative that runs over four years. It’s open to anyone over the age of 18 who is a Western Australian resident.
The program comes as authorities scramble to replace the 4,500 trees in Perth that were lost to the shot-hole borer.
“Everything we can do to enhance and plant more trees across Perth, and our entire state, will unlock a range of social, economic and environmental benefits for the entire community,” WA Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn said on Saturday.
How can I get a Treebate?
Planting native plants in your garden in WA might mean you’re eligible to claim $150. Source, gardenelegance_subiaco, Instagram/soilbusseltondunsborough, Instagram
There are 10,000 rebates available each year for four years.
With two months left in the program’s first year, more than 2,000 Treebates are ready to be cashed in for a rebate of up to $150.
According to the department, getting your rebate is simple: “One: Buy a tree. Two: Plant the tree. Three: Claim your rebate.”
The native tree must be able to grow to more than three metres in height at maturity.
The easiest way to claim this rebate is through the ServiceWA app.
Second program allows landowners to claim extra $150
A second program for landowners in WA allows them to claim an additional $150 in compensation for trees lost to the shot-hole borer.
It’s known as the WA Tree Recovery Program, and permits eligible residents to claim up to $150 for every tree removed under the authorisation of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.
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“The planting of thousands of trees under these two programs will build on the State Government’s urban greening initiatives, creating communities that are greener, healthier and more liveable,” the environment minister added.
WA residents can claim this rebate the same way they’re claim Treebate via the ServiceWA app.
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