More than 375,000 trees have been planted in Melbourne’s western suburbs thanks to the More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West program.
The figure marks a 75% completion towards the target to plant 500,000 trees in Melbourne’s west, which commenced in 2021.
More than 4,000 trees have been provided to schools this year across the local government areas of Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melton, Moonee Valley, and Wyndham to beautify school grounds, create green spaces for future generations to enjoy and encourage budding environmental stewards in Victoria’s youth.
The trees planted through More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West have been strategically placed in various locations across Melbourne’s inner west where they are needed most including in parks, reserves, alongside shared user paths and roads, as well as in residential and industrial areas.
Each of the 375,000 trees planted provide shade, contribute to an improvement in air quality and support local wildlife habitat through a widespread increase of urban tree cover.
A driving principle behind the delivery of the More Trees for a Cooler Greener West program has been collaboration at every stage. Trees have been planted in partnership with Traditional Custodians, land managers, community groups, volunteers and schools. This collaborative effort underscores the shared commitment of the government and the broader community to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
More detail on the More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West program can be found here: https://www.environment.vic.gov.au/more-trees
Quotes attributable to Stephen Chapple, Regional Director Port Phillip, DEECA
“Planting 375,000 trees represents a significant investment in our environment and future. These trees will not only enhance our urban landscapes but also contribute to cooling our cities, improving air quality, and creating more liveable communities."
“We’re thrilled to reach the milestone of 375,000 trees planted as part of the More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West program and look forward to watching Melbourne’s west transform for many years to come as a result.”
