Free native plants available for local projects
Published on 23 March 2026
Fraser Coast community groups, schools and environmental volunteers will soon be able to apply for free native plants, with the first round of Council’s 2026 Plant Donation Program opening on 1 April.
Environment spokesperson Cr Zane O’Keefe said applications close on 31 May, supporting projects linked to National Tree Day and other local environmental initiatives.
“Through this program, Council donates locally grown native plants from the Fraser Coast Community Nursery to help community groups restore and enhance our natural environment,” he said.
“The nursery, located at the northern end of the Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens, grows more than 300 species of local plants with the support of volunteers and staff.”
Cr O’Keefe said the program supported a wide range of environmental projects across the region.
“These native plant donations support community planting events, environmental education programs, erosion control, wildlife corridor projects and local conservation efforts,” he said.
“By working together with community groups, schools and volunteers, we can strengthen local biodiversity while creating greener and healthier neighbourhoods.”
Eligible applicants include educational institutions, not-for-profit organisations, incorporated environmental groups, registered Land for Wildlife members, registered Community Environment Program volunteers and other community groups working to protect the natural environment.
Cr O’Keefe said the application rounds were scheduled to ensure plants had time to grow and could be planted during suitable seasonal conditions.
“A staged approach allows the nursery time to grow plants so they are ready for planting when conditions are most favourable,” he said.
Plants approved under Round 1 will be available for collection in July and ready for planting as part of National Tree Day activities (26 July) and other projects.
Interested groups and individuals can find the application form and program guidelines at:
https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/plant-donation-program