Riparian
Incentive Program 2015
Guidelines
Guidelines for individuals, groups and organisations applying for
Funding to implement on-ground works to address the targets
identified in the Riparian Incentives Program funded by Local
Land Services Western Region.
Expressions of Interest must be hand delivered or postmarked by 5.00pm: Friday 10th July
2015
Hand delivery:
To any Western Local Land Services office
Email: [email protected]
Fax: 02 6836 2988
For more information
Free call: 1300 795 299 or
www.western.lls.nsw.gov.au
Post:
Western Local Land Services
2015 Incentives Program
PO Box 307
Cobar NSW 2835
(EOIs must be postmarked by 5pm on
Friday 10 July 2015)
In partnership with
Catchment Action
NSW
www.lls.nsw.gov.au
Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
Contents
In partnership with
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Contents
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Before you Begin:
Western Local Land Services Region
Contact your Local Land Services Office:
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Where Funding Comes From:
National Landcare Programme
Catchment Action NSW
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Local Land Services Funding Guidelines:
General
Eligibility
Conflict of Interest
Monitoring and evaluation of outcomes
Compliance with existing State and Commonwealth Legislation
Work Health and Safety
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Training
Project timeframe
Financial Guarantee
Project approvals and contracts
Eligibility list for approved but unfunded projects:
Final Inspection
Payment schedule
Unsuccessful applicants
Appeal process for unsuccessful applicants
What happens to the information I provide?
Collection:
Storage:
Access:
Use:
Disclosure:
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Project Risk Management:
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Riparian Program Funding Criteria:
Projects involving boundary fences
Projects linking across more than one property
Minimum standards for some infrastructure
Exact details on materials to be used
Terminology
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Fence Designs
Option A
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
Option B
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End Assemblies
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Floodway designs
Overland Flow Areas
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Lodging an application
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Assessment process
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Project Budgets:
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Project Plan/Map:
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Local Land Services Western Region
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
Before you Begin:
The managers of land within the Western Region (see map below) are invited to participate in the 2015
Incentives Program. Only land managers who submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) by 5pm on Friday 10th
July 2015 will be eligible to proceed to the application stage of the Incentives Program.
We will acknowledge receiving your Expression of Interest and then assign a local staff member to help you
develop a full application by the closing date of 5pm on Wednesday 30 th September 2015. Application forms
will be available from Monday 3rd of August 2015 to land managers who submitted an EOI.
Local Land Services Western Region
Local Land Services Western Region
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
Contact your Local Land Services Office:
The best approach is by working with the staff of your Local Land Services. Local Land Services Western
Region staff are available to assist you in submitting the strongest possible application for your project.
Aboriginal land managers can also contact local Aboriginal Communities Officers. Below are the staff
members who will be working as case officers for Incentives 2015.
Location
Staff Contact
Jennifer Azevedo
Isobel Colson
Bourke
Phone
(02) 6870
8628
(02) 6870
8621
Guy Gibbs
(Aboriginal Communities)
(02) 6870 8629
Courtney Ellery
(02) 6870 8630
Brewarrina
Blackie Gordon
(Aboriginal Communities)
0428 607 536
Broken Hill
Mitch Plumbe
(08) 8082 5205
Tanya Cooper
(03) 5021 9460
Rob Dini
(03) 5021 9430
Buronga
Ben Slingsby
(03) 5021 9430
Ronni O'Donnell
(Aboriginal Communities)
(03) 5021 9429
Address
21 Mitchell Street / PO Box 342
Bourke NSW 2840
24 Bathurst Street / PO Box 3
Brewarrina NSW 2839
32 Sulphide Street / PO Box 692
Broken Hill NSW 2840
32 Enterprise Way / PO Box 363
Buronga NSW 2739
Brian Dohnt
Cobar
(02) 6836 1575
62 Marshall Street / PO Box 307
Cobar NSW 2835
Amy Gunn
Where Funding Comes From:
Local Land Services Western Region utilises funds from the Australian Government’s National Landcare
Programme as well as Catchment Action NSW which have specific long term targets. Projects will be offered
funding based on the merit of the project and the availability of funds.
National Landcare Programme
The National Landcare Programme is part of the Australian Government’s investment in managing natural
resources. This programme is comprised of two streams, one of which delivers funding through regional
bodies (e.g. Local Land Services). Regional bodies must demonstrate their ability to deliver against the
National Landcare Programme’s strategic objectives and targets and funding may only apply to specific
activities and areas of the Local Land Services Western region.
National Landcare Programme funding has been provided to Local Land Services Western Region to
achieve biodiversity outcomes by improving and enhancing groundcover across the Western region. This
Local Land Services Western Region
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
outcome can be related directly to the installation of riparian fencing, off-stream water points, and improved
grazing management.
Riparian areas include rivers, floodplains, billabongs, creeks, wetlands and lakes. The condition of these
areas is vital to water quality and the overall health of aquatic ecosystems. There are also significant benefits
to livestock production and in turn business viability.
In the Western Region, riparian zones are complex and have highly variable flows. Droughts may be
followed by heavy rains which fill thousands of small creeks, flooding the wetlands and lakes, flowing across
the floodplains creating new watercourses and reaching widely dispersed billabongs and waterholes. Water
supports and attracts life. It provides habitat for plant and animal biodiversity and supports commerce
through industry, irrigation and domestic use.
For more information on the National Landcare Programme http://www.nrm.gov.au/
Catchment Action NSW
Catchment Action NSW funding is primarily targeted at Management Targets identified in the Local Land
Services Western Region Strategic Plan. This is a ten-year plan for improving and managing natural
resources in the Region. It specifies how Local Land Services will allocate funds approved under the current
four year investment strategy and direct future funding in order to manage the Region’s natural resources.
Local Land Services Funding Guidelines:
General
 All on-ground works are to be conducted on land within the Western Local Region.
 You must not commence your project until you have signed a contract with Local Land Services.
 Your project may be used by Local Land Services for demonstration and/or promotional purposes with
your consent.
 If you have any questions about project eligibility or other concerns about the project proposal form you
should contact your nearest Local Land Services Western Region office.
Eligibility
 Applications are invited from all land managers including individuals, groups, non-government
organisations, not-for-profit organisations; Local Government and State Government agencies (core
functions of government agencies will not be funded).
 Where an applicant is not the owner/lessee of the land, specific permission will be required from the
owner/lessee to implement the project. Written permission from the owner/lessee will be required before
approval.
 Applicants with current Local Land Services Western Region (formerly CMA) and/or National
Landcare Program projects that are not compliant with contract conditions as at September 30 th
2015 will not be eligible for funding. This includes applicants with outstanding monitoring records.
Local Land Services Western Region
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Conflict of Interest
Nonprofessional relationships with Local Land Services Western Region staff or board members may be
perceived as a conflict of interest. Local Land Services Chairs and Board members and their spouse, parents
and children or adopted children and/or Staff and their spouse, parents and children or adopted children who
are interested in applying for the 2015 Incentives Program are required to submit an application to the Local
Land Services Conflict of Interest Subcommittee. The Conflict of Interest will be assessed, consistent across
all Local Land Service regions to determine the best approach to managing a real or perceived conflict of
interest. It should be noted that the default position of Local Land Services is removal of the conflict, in which
case participation in Local Land Services Incentive Funding may not be permitted. If you are concerned that
a perceived conflict of interest may impact on your application please contact Russell Grant, Manager
Regional Specialist Services (02 6836 1575).
Monitoring and evaluation of outcomes
 If your project is funded you will be required to undertake basic monitoring of your projects environmental
outcomes. This monitoring information will assist Local Land Services to assess project and applicant
successes which is necessary to justify future funding rounds.
 Landholder monitoring (see current MERI guidelines) will be required yearly, for the whole ten
years of the contract.
 Monitoring guidelines will be provided by Local Land Services Western Region.
 At times, Local Land Services staff may require property access for project monitoring purposes. You will
be advised in advance of any access requirements.
Compliance with existing State and Commonwealth Legislation
Local Land Services only approves the amount of funding for your project. This does not authorise you to
implement the project. You must ensure that your project has all necessary approvals, licenses, permits,
consents, etc. and that your project complies with all relevant legislation including, but not restricted to, the
following:
Legislation
How is it relevant?
More information
Western Lands Act 1901 (NSW)
Western Lands Lease conditions
www.lpma.nsw.gov.au
National Parks and Wildlife Act
1974 (NSW)
Protection of Cultural Heritage
sites
www.environment.nsw.gov.au
Native Vegetation Act 2003
(NSW)
Clearing of native vegetation for
fence lines, pipe lines (RAMAs)
www.environment.nsw.gov.au
Threatened Species
Conservation Act 1995 – NSW
Protection of threatened species
and endangered ecological
communities when installing
infrastructure
www.environment.nsw.gov.au
Environmental Planning and
Assessment Act 1979 – NSW
Impact of project proposal on
threatened species and/or
ecological communities
www.planning.nsw.gov.au
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Local Land Services Act 2013 –
NSW
Project proposals must be
located within the Local Land
Services Western Region
www.lls.nsw.gov.au
Water Management Act 2000 –
NSW
Impact of project proposals on
streams, flow of water
www.water.nsw.gov.au
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Act 1997
Infrastructure must be compliant
with codes
www.dpi.nsw.gov.au
Work Health and Safety Act 2011
Safe work method statements
and reporting (see information on
Work Health and Safety below)
www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au
Work Health and Safety
All successful applicants for the Riparian Incentive Program will be working in partnership with Local Land
Services not only to deliver their project on time and budget, but also to ensure that all activities carried out
will meet the obligations of the NSW Work Health and Safety Act 2011.
What does this mean for Local Land Services?
 We are a PCBU (‘person conducting a business or undertaking’) under the Act.
 We must demonstrate due diligence to ensure undertakings comply with the Act.
 Any person contracted to undertake activities by Local Land Services is a ‘worker’ under the Act. This
includes landholders funded for works on their own property plus sub-contractors.
 We must ensure successful applicants have systems in place to meet Work Health and Safety standards
and have demonstrated procedures for recording incidents.
What does this mean for successful applicants?
 Successful applicants must work with Local Land Services to demonstrate adequate identification of risks
and hazards in workplaces.
 Strategies (safe work practices) must be developed and actions implemented to minimise these risks and
hazards.
 A sound process exists for recording and reporting work health and safety incidents. Incidents must be
reported to Local Land Services Western Region.
What does this mean if a sub-contractor is engaged?
 Under the Act, Local Land Services and landholders retain Work, Health and Safety obligations for any
sub-contractor that may be engaged under this program.
Training
Local Land Services Western Region will offer training to all land managers who submit an expression of
interest for the 2015 Incentives Program. Tactical Grazing Management workshops will coincide with the
application period and are intended to assist with project proposals by building applicant’s capacity to
develop a management plan.
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
Applicants are asked to indicate on their Expression of Interest form whether they would like to they attend
one of these workshops. For further information please speak to Local Land Services staff.
Project timeframe
Land managers who are successful in their application to the 2015 Incentive Program will enter into contracts
allowing up until the 2nd December 2016 for the completion of on ground works. Applicants must
demonstrate that their project is achievable in the given timeframe with consideration given to competing
priorities.
Local Land Services contracts require ongoing management of project infrastructure and outcomes for ten
years.
Financial Guarantee
All applicants to Local Land Services Western Region Programs are required to demonstrate that they are
financially viable to deliver their proposed works in the contracted time frame. To this effect a personal
guarantee or a letter of guarantee by the applicant’s financial advisor (e.g. accountant) is required in order for
the application to proceed to assessment. A template for this purpose will be provided by Local Land
Services Western Region and must be submitted with your Incentive application. Templates will be available
along with the program application form Monday 3rd August 2015.
Applicants proposing a project with a Local Land Services contribution of $50,000 (ex. Gst) or greater will be
required to submit either a letter of comfort from the applicant’s banking institution specifying that their
contribution to the on ground works can be met and the project will be completed according to the contracted
conditions or a personal guarantee to that affect.
Project approvals and contracts
 You will be advised in writing if your project has been approved and placed on an eligibility list.
 Once approved projects have been ranked, funds will be allocated to each project down the list. This will
be a progressive process until all funds available in the Riparian Incentives Program budget are spent or
the project eligibility list is exhausted.
 If your proposal is funded, you will be contacted in writing by Local Land Services and an offer of contract
for your project will be made. The contract will be granted for a period of ten years and will detail the
negotiated outputs and outcomes of the project. Before a contract is signed, applicants must complete the
Boundary fencing agreement (if applicable).
 It is your responsibility to accept the contract by the given deadline, or decline the funding and notify Local
Land Services. All project establishment works must be completed by Friday 2nd December 2016.
Note: Projects are allocated funds in order from the highest rank down the eligibility list until funds are fully
subscribed in the relevant funding source. However, due to priorities in funding allocations, priority may be
given to projects which achieve outcomes in specific areas as identified by the Australian Government.
Eligibility list for approved but unfunded projects:
 If your project is approved but misses out on funding when program funds are fully allocated to higher
ranking projects, it will remain on an eligibility list.
 Funds may become available if contract offers are declined. The next ranked project on the eligibility list is
then allocated funds.
 Where the newly available funds are not sufficient to fund the next ranked project, the funds are allocated
to the next project on the eligibility list that can be fully covered by the available funds.
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 Once the eligibility list expires (when no further funding opportunities are available), applicants will need to
reapply for any future funding rounds.
Final Inspection
All projects funded through Riparian Incentives Program are required to undergo a final inspection to
complete the project and initiate final payment. Final inspections are carried out by Local Land Services
officers who will negotiate;
 A suitable timeframe with you to conduct the inspection.
 Check all infrastructure against the contract. The contract will usually comprise of the information provided
in the application form and any negotiated outcomes. This will include the quality of material, the location
of infrastructure, the amount of materials used etc.
 GPS locations of key points and infrastructure in order to accurately record the project for future
monitoring.
 Discuss with you your ongoing monitoring and reporting requirements.
Please Note: Any changes to contracted outcomes that do not have a written variation approval on file
could constitute grounds for cancellation of the contract, thus forfeiting the final payment.
Payment schedule
 If you accept the contract, fifty percent (50%) of Local Land Services funds identified in the budget will be
paid to you within six weeks of signing the contract and submitting the first invoice.
 A progress payment of twenty-five percent (25%) of the total Local Land Services funds allocated will be
made available upon successful inspection of at least 75% of the contracted works.
 Upon completion of the on-ground works, your project will require a final inspection by a Local Land
Services officer. If satisfactory, the remaining twenty-five percent (25%) will be paid within two months of
the final inspection report, tax invoice and monitoring data being submitted.
 If the works are deemed unsatisfactory, the final payment may be withheld, funds recovery action may be
taken and restrictions on future funding may occur. Appropriate measures to remedy the issue will be
discussed.
 If you are not in a financial position to carry out the project given the above payment schedule it is advised
that you forfeit the grant and re-apply when financially capable.
 Please keep your local case officer informed of project progress.
 Funding grants are considered taxable income by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). However,
applicants should consult their financial advisors or the ATO about the tax implications of a Local Land
Services grant.
Unsuccessful applicants
 You will be notified in writing if your project is unsuccessful.
 You may seek additional advice/discussion from Russell Grant, Manager Regional Specialist Services (02
6836 1575)
Appeal process for unsuccessful applicants
 The Western Local Board will review any appeals. The Board’s determination will be final.
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
 An application for appeal must be made in writing to Russell Grant, Manager Regional Specialist Services
PO Box 307, Cobar NSW 2835 stating the reasons for the appeal.
 No new information is considered; the appeal is based on what is provided in the application form.
 Appeals are assessed bi-monthly at Western Local Board meetings.
 The result of your appeal will be provided in writing and can be discussed if requested.
 If your appeal is successful, your project will be placed on the eligibility list based on your original
assessment score.
What happens to the information I provide?
Collection:
 Project proposal information collected is used to assess your application and to contact you. Please
contact Local Land Services if you believe the information collected is not relevant or is excessive.
 A statutory declaration is provided at the bottom of the Application Form for you to provide consent for
Local Land Services to use and store the information for assessment purposes and to be entered onto the
public register. Additionally, the statutory declaration indicates the information was collected directly from
you and is accurate.
 People involved in the collection, assessment and processing of the Riparian Incentive Program will view
your information. These people are required by law to not disclose your information.
Storage:
 Your information will be stored in secured files within the Local Land Services Western Region offices.
The information will be kept for the organisational life of Local Land Services or subsequent agencies
responsible for natural resource management. Local Land Services staff only, for work purposes, will have
access to your information.
Access:
 You are able to view or correct this information at your request in business hours.
Use:
 Consent will be sought for any use of the collected information outside Local Land Services.
Disclosure:
 The amount of funds granted, applicant name, location and brief project description will be placed on the
Local Land Services public register. This will take effect if the applicant enters into a contract with Local
Land Services.
 The purpose of the public register is to inform the community where public natural resource management
funding is directed in the region and additionally, to ensure integrity, honesty and transparency in the
administration of the Riparian Incentive Program.
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Project Risk Management:
Risk assessment is a requirement in all Local Land Services operations under the Natural Resources
Commission Performance Standard for Local Land Services.
This process will assist in identifying what could go wrong in the ‘implementation’ of your project – the actual
on-ground works. It should be a valuable tool to identify weaknesses and develop a more robust project plan.
Please Note: All projects will have associated risks. Achieving a high or extreme rating on your risk
assessment does not mean that your project will be rejected. What we are seeking is that the applicant
identifies and understands the associated risks and determines management actions to counter the risk.
Local Land Services will use the table below to establish the likelihood and consequence levels of the
identified risk. Then cross-match the likelihood and consequence values to establish the risk rating (Low,
Moderate, High or Extreme).
Consequence
Likelihood
Negligible
Minor
Moderate
Major
Catastrophic
Almost certain
Medium
Medium
High
High
Extreme
Likely
Low
Medium
Medium
High
Extreme
Possible
Low
Low
Medium
High
High
Unlikely
Low
Low
Medium
Medium
Medium
Rare
Low
Low
Low
Medium
Medium
Once the risks are identified they can be accepted (some risks cannot be managed), controlled or eliminated.
Describe the actions you will take to manage the identified risk in the Project Risk Management Table in the
Application.
Example
Office Use Only
Risk identified
Unable to
complete project
in timeframe
due to
competing
priorities
Actions required to manage risk
Likelihood
Consequence
Risk
Rating
Possible
Major
High
Possible
Major
High
 Source contractors to complete works
 Source additional labour
 Prioritise tasks accordingly
 Contact Local Land Services
 Source contractors to complete works
Machinery
breakdowns or
unavailable
 Source additional machinery from neighbour
 Undertake maintenance prior to
commencement of works
Other risks to consider:
Natural disasters – floods, fire, Contractors, suppliers, Machinery condition, cash flow changes, illness,
motivation, time management.
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Riparian Program Funding Criteria
This program is focused on controlling the impact of grazing species on riparian zones and providing
infrastructure for improved riparian zone management. The project must be focused on improving the
condition of the area through increased groundcover and riparian vegetation.
To ensure that the funding is allocated effectively and fairly we require well thought out project applications.
Please ensure that you have read through and understood each of the particular details required to submit a
complete application.
Applicants should consider the following in preparing their project application:
 ‘Limited Strategic Grazing’ will be permitted to enable crash grazing of rank growth. Stock access must be
restricted to avoid wet periods (heavy rainfall and flood), very dry conditions and periods of seed set for
riparian vegetation. Properties looking to manage stock within the riparian zone need to clearly specify
how they plan to manage their domestic grazing pressure. The grazing impact of domestic livestock
should be minimal and with consideration to land type, condition of vegetation and soil stability.
Management of grazing pressure from unmanaged goats and excessively high populations of Kangaroos
should be addressed.
 The landholder is to control/manage all noxious and environmental weeds within the riparian area. Only
chemicals registered for use around waterways may be used for weed control.
 Control activities which result in soil disturbance within forty meters from the top of the stream banks
should be discussed with your Local Land Services Case Officer. A Controlled Activity Permit under the
Water Management Act (2000) may be required.
 Cultural sites must be protected from damage at all times therefore if required fence lines will be relocated
away from timbered areas so that scar trees, midden sites and culturally significant areas can be
protected. An on-ground assessment may be required where proposed works are considered a high risk
to cultural heritage sites. This process is intended to assist land managers in identifying sites and reduce
their risk of causing damage to a cultural heritage site.
 The landholder is not to clear native vegetation, whether remnant or regrowth, or remove any standing or
fallen dead timber from this project area. All works must be consistent with the Native Vegetation Act
2003.
 All floodways, culverts and crossings are consistent with ‘fish friendly’ design principles
(www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries)
Infrastructure funded through this program is only the first step towards achieving the desired outcomes. A
thorough and strategic management plan is required for the ongoing management of the project area.
Riparian management plans must include not only grazing control but also the impact of weeds and pest
animals. Weed management must be addressed in relation to the likelihood of an infestation occurring
upstream (impacting on the project area) and also how present and future infestations will be managed for
the duration of the management agreement. Pest management, specifically of feral pigs, should be
considered in the proposal.
Existing internal fences and standards will need to be detailed during the mapping stage, this can be done
with assistance from your Local Land Services case officer. Fencing proposals must demonstrate that they
will fully enclose/exclude a riparian area. Projects may score higher if they are adding onto existing total
grazing pressure and/ or riparian fencing. The proposed type of riparian fencing is to be demonstrated in the
application as well as a strategy for maintaining it for the 10 year life of the project.
Special consideration should be taken for the impact of infrastructure on the riparian zone, including the
following.
 Demonstrated flood-water mitigation in the fence design.
 Troughs with concrete aprons/robust materials to minimise soil disturbance around water points.
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
 Any pump site is to be adequately protected from livestock, flood or other damage.
 Water point placement should be in-line with an integrated property management plan.
 Note that 50 meters is the minimum distance from the top of the river bank for the fence to be erected to
ensure riparian enclosure. Applicants should take into account the high water line, avoid clearing of large
trees subsequently reduce the risk of damage to cultural heritage sites of riparian areas; proposals which
are designed accordingly may be assessed more favorably.
 The pump and pipe size is based on the requirements of the project, not any future works for the property
unless applicant covers the extra costs over and above the minimum costing ratio.
 Protection of both sides of a river stretch will receive a higher score. This will, more than likely, involve
cooperation with your neighbour.
Please see minimum standards for infrastructure for further specifications.
The funding will be provided on a cost-sharing basis, with Local Land Services Western Region
stipulating an amount per km that will be offered, dependent on fence type and standard.
Projects involving boundary fences
It is anticipated that a proportion of eligible projects will include upgrades to boundary fencing. However
landholders/lessees are required by the Western Lands Act 1901 to have a stock proof boundary fence
suitable to the enterprise (e.g. dorpers, cattle etc.) therefore as the responsibility of upgrading fences to
match their enterprise is the landholders/lessee’s Local Land Services will only fund certain components of
boundary fences. Both sides of the boundary fence are required to be cleared to ensure long-term fence
maintenance.
It is necessary to clearly state the level of involvement from each neighbour. For approved projects involving
a section of boundary there will be an agreement to sign between all parties involved in the project which
clearly articulates the roles and responsibilities of each party. This declaration must state that they are aware
of the project and that they are either involved financially, in-kind or not at all. Contracts will not be issued
without a completed fencing agreement (where a section of boundary is involved).
Projects linking across more than one property
The intent of the program is to fund enclosed riparian areas for improved groundcover/vegetation outcomes.
This may entail two (or more) properties working together on a section of waterway or riparian zone to
secure a ‘landscape scale’ outcome. This type of project will require neighbours working together and to
each have a management plan that compliments one another. Contracts will be with individual legal entities.
Applications will receive a higher ranking based on exceptional landscape values, i.e. where a project falls
within a RAMSAR wetland or completely secures a riparian corridor, the differential management of such an
area may have significant landscape scale benefits and would therefore be considered on the added merit of
the proposal.
Minimum standards for some infrastructure
Below are the standard fence designs for the Riparian Incentive Program and the amount per km Local
Land Services will contribute to each particular design. Applicants can select the fence most appropriate to
their operation and the level to which it is required (i.e. new or upgrade). Materials will still need to be
specified in the final application, however quotes and costs are not required. Minimum standards for water
point infrastructure are also listed, with a set funding contribution from Local Land Services.
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Exact details on materials to be used
It is required that all materials to be used in the proposal are to be specified. This includes, for instance, the
brand, style and diameter of fencing wire. If during the final inspection it is found that materials have
been used that are not of the same standard of those listed in the application the final payment may
be withheld and applicants may be ineligible for future funding. The material inventory should assist in
developing the project application. Material specifications will form part of the assessment and proof of
materials used (invoices) may be required for final inspection.
Terminology
New Fence: New internal fencing including end assemblies. (Does NOT include boundary fence, or existing
non-TGP internal fence, regardless of current condition).
Upgrade fence: Upgrade of existing or boundary fencing. (Does NOT include end assemblies even when
replacement of fence is required)
New and Upgrade fencing MUST meet minimum TGP standards. Projects will not be considered unless
they fully enclose an area to the minimum standard.
Clearing Rate 1: Light grade only required to level fence line (site preparation)
Clearing Rate 2: Minimal mechanical clearing additional to site preparation
Clearing Rate 3: Substantial mechanical clearing required, includes grading. (Applicant to justify – ineligible
on upgrade fencing)
Local Land Services Western Region Staff can advise you as to the appropriate rate for clearing – please
note that applications are ranked competitively based on criteria which includes value for money –
assessment panels may stipulate the rate for clearing.
Fence Designs
Option A (Hinged joint 7/90/30)
Minimum Standard Description:
 Hinged joint (7/90/30) with 2.5mm
top and bottom wire.
 2.5mm High Tensile top and belly
plain wire supports (clipped).
 2.8mm High Tensile top and
bottom plain wire (clipped).
 165cm Star Pickets @ 10m
spacing.
 <500M Strainer spacing
Local Land Services Western Region
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
Fencing Standard
LLS ( km)
Landholder (estimate)
Total (estimate)
All new internal fence
$2,700/km
$1,300/km
$4,000/km
Replacement boundary or upgrade
fence
$2,100/km
$1,050/km
$3,150/km
Clearing Rate 1
$100/km
$100/km
$200/km
Clearing Rate 2 (where required)
$500/km
$500/km
$1000/km
Clearing Rate 3 (justification
required)
$700/km
$700/km
$1400/km
Option B
Minimum Standard Description:
 Eleven Line Plain Wire 2.5mm
 165cm Star Pickets @ 10m
spacing
 2 droppers per 10m spacing
 <500m strainer spacing
Fencing Standard
LLS ( km)
Landholder
(estimate)
Total (estimate)
All new internal fence
$2700/km
$1300/km
$4000/km
Replacement boundary or upgrade fence
$2,100
$1,050
$3,150/km
Clearing Rate 1
$100/km
$100/km
$200/km
Clearing Rate 2 (where required)
$500/km
$500/km
$1000/km
Clearing Rate 3 (justification required)
$700/km
$700/km
$1400/km
Local Land Services Western Region
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
End Assemblies
Funding provided for new internal fence only – not for boundary or existing internal upgrades.
Note that the installation of gates is at the applicant’s expense.
Option A
Option B
Option C
Strainer assembly.
Full box assembly.
Double Box assembly.
LLS
Landholder
(estimate)
LLS
Landholder
(estimate)
LLS
Landholder
(estimate)
$150
$150
$210
$210
$280
$280
Floodway designs (where necessary for gullies/streams)
Applicable to a defined channel only – Local Land Services staff to advise if appropriate.
Minimum Standard Description:
 End Assemblies either side of waterway
 4mm Bull wire on top
 Sheep yard mesh hinged from top wire
 Weighted centre section (50mm pipe or
equivalent)
LLS
Landholder (estimate)
$40/meter
$30/meter
Overland Flow Areas
Consideration will need to be given for overland flow-lines and broad floodplains. These areas are not
‘gullies’ as such, but include areas of shallow low-flow in rain events with large volumes of water and debris.
Fence designs will need to accommodate the movement of debris and the additional pressure of flow and
Local Land Services Western Region
17
Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
sediment. This may include a heavy top (hinge) wire with droppers, additional hinged joint, or weld-mesh
weighted to depth of flow area.
No additional funding is available for overland flow areas, however, designs for these areas need to be
approved in the application.
Designs must include:


End assemblies constructed at either side of the water way
Swinging mesh added to bottom of the fence where distance is greater than 10cm from the ground
Water Infrastructure
A maximum of two watering points will be considered. Watering points must be placed in the
paddock adjacent to the proposed area. The water points should be located no further than half
way (fifty percent) across the paddock at a spacing of not less than 2km. Watering points will only
be funded in conjunction with an eligible fencing proposal.
Proposals must justify the placement of watering points in relation to the optimal grazing radius, depending
on the type of livestock and with consideration to a broader property plan.
Minimum standards for water infrastructure:




22,500 Litre tank (up to two watering points)
16’ concrete trough with a robust apron/base (1 trough per tank)
50mm poly, minimum depth of poly trench 600mm
Pump must be of a standard suitable to the scale of the project, LLS will specify a maximum
contribution
The funding will be provided on a cost-sharing basis, with Local Land Services Western Region
stipulating an amount per unit/meter that will be offered.
Water infrastructure type
LLS Contribution
Pump
2:1 cost sharing ratio (LLS: Landholder) up to a
maximum LLS contribution $6,000. Quote for pump must
be provided to LLS
Poly Line (50mm)
$3.00 per meter (cost of trenching included in contribution)
Tank (min 22,500 Litre/ 5000 gallon)
$1900 per tank
16’ Concrete trough
$700 per trough (must have robust apron)
Fittings (grouped cost per tank/trough unit)
$500
Clearing
See clearing rates listed
Lodging an application
If you believe that your project fits the criteria and you have submitted an Expression of Interest by 5pm
Friday the 10th July 2015 you will have a case officer assigned to you. Application forms will be available
from Monday the 3nd of August 2015.
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
Applications will be assessed if they are received or post-marked by 5pm Wednesday the 30th September
2015. You will receive an acknowledgement to confirm receipt of your application.
Assessment process
Your application will be assessed by an independent technical panel and ranked accordingly. Based on the
information provided the assessment panel will:
 confirm that your project meets the funding criteria/eligible activities (see prior page)
 determine if the proposal is up-to-date with current best management practices
 assess cost-effectiveness based on the area (Ha) of land under management
 score your application and deem eligible or ineligible. Weightings allocated to each question can be found
throughout the application, i.e. see table below
 rank all eligible applications
 the panel may suggest modifications to projects to improve outcomes.
The questions below are to be used as a guide only, assessment questions will be provided with
your application.
Question No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
Appendix B
Assessment Questions
To what extent does the applicant’s prior experience
indicate a commitment to achieving Riparian management
outcomes? (or others)
To what extent is the proposal appropriate to achieve
riparian management outcomes?
To what extent are materials and clearing requirements
clearly specified and fit for purpose?
To what extent are the water point and fence designs
appropriate to the proposal?
To what extent is this a cost effective proposal in relation to
the overall project?
Are risks to the project implementation identified and
adequately addressed?
To what extent has the applicant demonstrated the ability to
complete the project or other projects in the specified
timeline?
10 Year Riparian Management Plan
To what extent is the applicant’s project aim consistent
Appendix C
with the intended outcomes of the program? (relates to
overall property direction)
To what extent do the proposed management actions for
Appendix C
this project achieve desirable groundcover and Native
Vegetation outcomes? (relates to specific project)
To what extent are the monitoring techniques and the
Appendix C
proposed responses appropriate? (address native
vegetation, weed and pest animal impact)
To what extent have the risks to the project outcomes been
Appendix C
identified and adequately addressed?
Local Land Services Western Region
Scheme
Weighting
1 - 10
10%
1 - 10
30%
1 - 10
10%
1 - 10
10%
1 - 10
20%
1 - 10
10%
1 - 10
10%
1 - 10
30%
1 - 10
30%
1 - 10
20%
1 - 10
20%
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
Project Budgets:
The budget is a very important aspect to every project application as it provides the assessors with a detailed
understanding of the proposed activities. It is also used to determine how cost-effective the project is.
A project may incorporate several different sections including new or upgraded fences, overland flow areas,
different clearing requirements, multiple corners (i.e. end assemblies). Applicants are required to indicate the
quantities of each component required and, with the prices indicated, calculate the total of the grant applied
for.
Example below:
Fencing
No. of
Km
No. of Km
Upgrad
e
Fence
New
Fence
Option A (hinged joint w/plain) /
km
Price per Km
Total cost
New internal
Price per Km
Upgrade
Local Land
Services
5Km
Option B (11 plain wires) / km
$2,100
$2,700
$2,100
$2,700
Fencing Total:
$10,500
$10,500
End assemblies
No. of
Assembli
es
Option A (strainer assembly)
8
N/A
$ 150.00
$1,200
Option B (full box assembly)
4
N/A
$ 210.00
$840
Option C (double box
assembly)
4
N/A
$ 280.00
$1,120
End Assembly Total:
$3,160
$1,900
$1,900
$3.00 per meter
$3,000
Water Infrastructure
Tank
1
Poly Pipe (per Meter)
1000
Trough
1
$700
$700
Fittings
1
$500
$500
Water Infrastructure Total:
$6,100
Other costs
Grundfos 2 Panel
Solar ($6,200)
Pump (specify unit details)
Contribution 2:1 (LLS: Landholder) Maximum of
$6,000
$4,133
Clearing rate 1
Amount
9 Km
$100/km
$900
Clearing rate 2
Amount
2 Km
$500/km
$1000
Clearing rate 3
Amount
Km
$700/km
Floodway fencing / meter
Amount
10 M
$40/Meter
Grand Total:
Local Land Services Western Region
$25,793
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Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015
Project Plan/Map:
Maps for the project application will be developed in conjunction with Local Land Services staff. Note that the
location of infrastructure will be GPS located in your map and will therefore form part of your contract. It is
important that you indicate the location of proposed works carefully as the information provided will be legally
binding.
Applicants are also invited to submit additional maps to illustrate their project plans.
Sample project map
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www.lls.nsw.gov.au