The Lake Macquarie Environmental Research Grants Program is designed to support projects that will assist Council and other environmental managers to develop appropriate land-use practices, plan remedial and preventative works and adjust management strategies.

Issues that have been identified as warranting research include diffuse pollutant sources and their effects, lake water pollution, air quality, biodiversity, health impacts of exposure to heavy metals, estuarine habitat, resource consumption, alternative sources and efficient use of energy and water, sustainability metrics and reporting and the effectiveness of environmental management strategies.

It is expected that the results of funded projects will assist Council and other environmental managers to develop appropriate land use practices, plan remedial and preventative works, and adjust management strategies.

The selection criteria for submissions are as follows:

• the outcomes of the project has clear benefits for the city 
• the potential for the outcomes to have application in environmental management of the city 
• the quality of the submission 
• scientific rigor of the proposed research 
• value for money (including the budget of the project and any in kind contributions) 
• researcher and/or supervisor’s expertise and experience 
• how the proposed research fits within the priorities for the city 
• degree to which the project fosters and supports academic achievement for the Lake Macquarie residents

University researchers (students and academics) and research-based organisations are encouraged to apply.

Note: Payments of wages, purchasing of durables, or living allowances are not eligible grant components. The Environmental Research Grant will not fund university administration charges or any overheads (on-costs) if charged by your institution/organisation.

• Phone: 02 4069 0079
• Email: envresearchgrants@lakemac.nsw.gov.au