Subsidised native seedlings available to eligible ratepayers from August to September

Edward River Council has reopened its annual Rural Tree Planting Scheme, offering local landholders the opportunity to purchase native seedlings at heavily subsidised rates to boost biodiversity and enhance their properties.

The scheme is available to local ratepayers with properties of one hectare or more within the Edward River Council local government area.

• Own or manage property within the Edward River Council area
• Have rateable land of at least one hectare (2.47 acres)
• Be current ratepayers with Edward River Council

Edward River Council covers the urban area of Deniliquin and surrounding region across the southern Riverina plains, including localities such as Barratta, Blighty, Booroorban, Conargo, Mayrung, Morago, Warragoon and Willurah.

The council area spans 8,884 square kilometres and serves approximately 8,430 residents.

Cost: $1.35 per seedling (heavily subsidised from commercial rates)

Species Available: Over 60 native varieties including:

• River red gum
• Various wattle species
• Bottlebrush varieties
• Melaleuca species
• Eucalyptus varieties

Ordering Period: 4 August 4 to September 12 2025.

Collection: May to June 2026.

The scheme operates on a tiered allocation system based on property size:

• 1-10 hectares: Up to 50 seedlings
• 10-500 hectares: Up to 150 seedlings
• Over 500 hectares: Up to 300 seedlings

These limits ensure fair distribution across different sized properties while recognising that larger properties have greater capacity for tree planting projects.

The Rural Tree Planting Scheme aims to increase native vegetation coverage across the Edward River region. Participants can expect multiple benefits from their tree planting projects:

Biodiversity Enhancement:

• Provides habitat for native wildlife
• Creates wildlife corridors connecting existing vegetation
• Supports native bird and animal populations
• Property Improvement:
• Reduces soil erosion and improves land stability
• Provides windbreaks for crops and livestock
• Enhances natural beauty and landscape value
• Can provide shade and shelter for animals

Environmental Impact:

• Contributes to carbon sequestration
• Improves local air quality
• Supports natural water cycle and soil health

Application Process

Property owners interested in participating should contact Edward River Council directly to confirm their eligibility and begin the application process.

Contact Details:

Phone: (03) 5898 3000

Email: [email protected]

Online: https://www.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au/.../Rural-Tree-Scheme

Applications must be submitted between August 4 and 12 September 12 2025.

Late applications cannot be accepted due to nursery ordering requirements and seasonal planting considerations.

With collection scheduled for May to June 2026, successful applicants have time to plan their planting areas and prepare sites appropriately.

The collection period coincides with optimal planting conditions in the region, giving seedlings the best chance of establishment before summer heat.

Property Preparation: Landholders should consider factors such as soil type, drainage, existing vegetation, and intended land use when planning where to plant their allocated seedlings.

Ongoing Care: While the seedlings are provided at subsidised rates, successful establishment requires appropriate watering, protection from stock, and ongoing maintenance during the establishment period.

The scheme coincides with Landcare Australia's annual celebration, which acknowledges people who are actively restoring, enhancing and protecting the natural environment in their community. Previous iterations of the program have seen strong community participation, contributing to the gradual increase in native vegetation across the shire.

The initiative represents a practical partnership between council and rural landholders, recognising that private land management decisions play a crucial role in regional environmental outcomes.

Council encourages eligible ratepayers to apply early, as the scheme operates on a first-come, first-served basis within each property size category.

For more information about eligibility requirements, available species, or the application process, contact Edward River Council during business hours.