PM Transcripts

FOR PRESS 27 SEPTEMBER, 1978
GRANT TO WORLD WILDLIFE FUND AUSTRALIA
The Commonwealth Government has allocated $ 50,000 in the
1978/ 79 Budget for World Wildlife Fund Australia, following
its active support to the setting up of thfp Fund in Australia.
The World Wildlife Fund is a well respected international
organisation established in 1961. Its headquarters are in
Switzerland and 27 countries have independent national
organisations. By the end of 1977 the Fund had disbursed
over $ 30 million for some 1,800 projects in 131 countries.
World Wildlife Fund Australia was incorporated in New South
Wales under the Companies Act on 29 June 1978 as a company
limited by guarantee and not having a share capital.
Its aim is to raise money and support for the preservation of
the natural heritage, particularly threatened habitat and
wildlife species.
Although the Fund's secretariat is based in Sydney, its
operation is being developed on an Australia-wide basis.
A Conservation Program Committee has been established
comprised of a number of leading scientists and conservationists
chosen on a multi-discipline basis from universities,
government and the community. It will be responsible for
selecting projects for financing from submissions made by
conservation groups, governments and other agencies.
It is anticipated that the Fund will work in cooperation
with other conservation organisations. In this way these
organisations could be involved in additional projects.
The majority of funds raised by World Wildlife Fund Australia
will be allocated to Australian projects. Some funds may
be allocated to projects located in the neighbouring South
Pacific countries.
It is extremely satisfying that the business community has
already given considerable support to the World Wildlife
Fund Australia. The World Wildlife Fund Australia is
indeed fortunate to have obtained the services of so
emminent an Australian businessman as Sir Noel Foley, C. B. E.
as the President.' 000---