Helping Nature Thrive in the Hills Face Zone Through Council Grants

Known as a prosperous native flora haven that blends leafy suburbia with woodland areas, the City of Burnside is committed to enhancing biodiversity by supporting habitat restoration on private properties, particularly within the Hills Face Zone.

Council plays an active role in managing Hills Face reserves, creek lines and urban biodiversity sites by controlling invasive weeds, encouraging natural regeneration and planting local native species. These actions not only protect local flora and fauna but also reduce fuel loads to help prevent wildfires. Council encourages residents in adjoining areas to play their part in preserving the natural beauty of the region.

One way to get involved is through the Habitat Restoration Grant, which provides financial assistance for eligible property owners. From July 2025, first-time applicants can receive up to $4,000 to support weed control or revegetation using native species sourced from the City’s Biodiversity Nursery. Previous grant recipients can apply for up to $2,000 from 14 August 2025.

Skye residents Anne and Mervyn received a grant in 2024 to support restoration works on their property, which had long been overrun with invasive olive trees.

‘We’ve been clearing olives for years,’ said Mervyn. ‘This grant gave us the chance to tackle a new section and really speed things up.’

Anne added that the support from Council’s Conservation and Land Management team was just as valuable as the funding. ‘As soon as the Conservation and Land Management team came up and saw what we wanted to do, they advised us on the best way forward. The team gave us great advice and were helpful throughout. We’d absolutely use the program again.’

To learn more about the grant and to see if your property qualifies visit the City of Burnside website to view criteria: bit.ly/HabitatRestorationGrants

Skye residents Anne and Mervyn