A $1 million funding injection announced this week is aimed at improving the health of the River Torrens.

The funds will be used to help improve water quality, native habitat condition and community awareness of river health on one of South Australia’s vital waterways.

Federal Environment Parliamentary Secretary and Senator for South Australia, Simon Birmingham, officially launched the River Torrens Recovery Programme this week.

“The River Torrens is one of South Australia’s most significant rivers. It plays a vital role in conveying storm and flood waters away from urban roads and infrastructure, and provides valuable habitat for birds, animals and aquatic life.” Senator Birmingham said.

“The funding will be allocated over two years to support a suite of works to rehabilitate the river catchment, including revegetation, invasive species control and river bank stabilisation, complementing existing restoration work within the catchment.

“The Australian Government is committed to improving the health of this important waterway and protecting it from the impacts of pollution and urban population growth,” said Senator Birmingham.

Federal Minister for Education and Member for Sturt, Christopher Pyne, and Member for Hindmarsh, Matt Williams, both welcomed the announcement.

“Healthy urban rivers are important for creating safe, liveable cities. They improve the quality of life of the people who live in them,” Mr Pyne said.

“The River Torrens is a place where the community can relax and take pleasure in the natural environment. It’s great to see the health of this iconic river will continue to be improved for everyone to enjoy,” Mr Williams said.

The River Torrens Recovery Programme is part of the Australian Government’s Coastal River Recovery Initiative, which aims to provide $9.3 million over four years to improve the environmental health of five of Australia’s waterways.