Applying to the 2027 Ecological Grazing Program
2027 Ecological Grazing Program
Work with Parks Victoria to manage nationally significant native grasslands
Parks Victoria is seeking applications from farmers interested in partnering with us to manage native grasslands across the Patho Plains and lower Avoca Plains, in northern Victoria.
Strategic grazing by sheep or cattle is a key land management tool used to maintain healthy native grasslands and support important conservation outcomes. Carefully managed grazing helps control grass biomass and create habitat conditions that benefit threatened plants and animals, including the endangered Plains-wanderer.
The most successful outcomes are achieved when Parks Victoria and farmers work together. We are looking for farmers whose livestock enterprise and grazing practices can align with the timing and management requirements needed to achieve conservation objectives.
Grazing agreements will be available across approximately 6,000 hectares of native grasslands for a three-year contract period.
Application Process
Information session
Parks Victoria will host an information session for farmers interested in participating in the 2027 Ecological Grazing Program.
The information session provides an opportunity to:
- learn about the conservation outcomes Parks Victoria is seeking to achieve
- understand how strategic grazing contributes to native grassland management
- discuss contract requirements and grazing expectations
- be provided sufficient information to determine whether the grazing requirements align with your farming system.
Farmers with stock available to graze during peak grass growth periods may find this opportunity particularly suitable.
Information session
10:00 am to 11:30 am, Thursday 29 October
Mitiamo Recreation Reserve, 50 Glossop Street, Mitiamo
To register: https://www.trybooking.com/DQJUP
Attendance at the information session is strongly encouraged but not mandatory. Farmers who are unable to attend are encouraged to contact Parks Victoria to discuss the program and agreement requirements before applying.
Submitting an application
The application form and information about each grazing area will be available here after the information session.
Applications can be lodged via:
Email
grazing@parks.vic.gov.au
Post
Biomass Reduction EOI, Parks Victoria
PO Box 138, Echuca VIC 3564
Closing date
All applications must be received by 12.00 pm AEDST, Wednesday 18 November 2026.
Confirmation that your application has been received will be provided.
Assessment and interviews
Applications will be assessed against the capacity to meet Parks Victoria grazing objectives using the information provided in your application.
Participation in the information session, experience grazing native pastures and the ability to work with Parks Victoria to achieve conservation outcomes are all attributes that will be considered favourably during the assessment process.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview between Thursday 3 and Tuesday 8 December. This may be face-to-face or via telephone or an internet call.
All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application.
Grazing agreements
Applicants should review the Biomass Reduction Contract before applying. Applicants should seek their own independent legal advice on the Biomass Agreement prior to signing.
Successful applicants will be offered an agreement commencing in early 2027.
A copy of the agreement is available with the application documents.
More information
For more information about the Conservation Grazing Program, send an email to grazing@parks.vic.gov.au.
To book a site inspection or ask any questions, contact Ben Hodgens on 03 8427 2469.