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Waterwise Verge Rebate Information

Benefits of creating a waterwise verge

In Albany, verges are traditionally covered in lawns that use large amounts of water and require significant maintenance.

By replacing lawn with waterwise plants and mulch, you can make a positive difference to the environment by-

  • Saving water and increased stormwater infiltration
  • Creating a cooling effect and mitigation of 'urban heat' in summer
  • Providing habitat for local wildlife and increased biodiversity
  • Improving streetscape amenity and potentially increasing property prices

Locally native plants are the preferred choice for a waterwise verge. They are suited to local climatic conditions and soil types, will thrive once established, and require much less maintenance than ornamental (non-native) species.

The City of Albany is a proud Gold Waterwise Council.

This initiative is proudly co-funded by Water Corporation's Waterwise Greening Scheme and forms part of our ambition for City of Albany to become a leading waterwise city.

What is a verge?

In urban areas, the verge is the strip of land between the road and the property boundary. Although the verge is owned by the City, the maintenance of lawns and  gardens on verges is the responsibility of the adjoining landowner. 

Verges form important green spaces within our community and serve as an area of public shared space, necessary for access and services, crossovers, footpaths and street trees.

How does it work?

Subject to available funds, the City of Albany is offering residents a rebate of up to $400 to create a waterwise verge including mulch and waterwise plants.

The rebate supports landscaping installation that removes turf and other hard surfaces (paving, gravel) and uses waterwise practices and waterwise plants, especially native plants.

Applicants must comply with the Terms and Conditions to be considered for a rebate. Funds will be granted for eligible applications on a first-come first-served basis until the pool of grant funding is exhausted.

The rebate does not support:

  • Infill verge projects that are already on a vegetated verge (i.e. replacing dying plants or mulch)
  • Verge installations prior to the dates of application approval

Which items can I claim?

Eligible items include

  • Waterwise plants
  • Mulch
  • Slow release native fertiliser,
  • Soil wetting agent and soil improvers.

The cost of delivery of plants, mulch or other items is not included in the total rebate cost. Please see the Terms and Conditions for further information.

How to apply for the Waterwise Verge Rebate

Step 1. Before you get started, ensure you have read and understand the City of Albany Waterwise Verge Rebate Terms and Conditions 

Step 2. It's essential to confirm any underground services in your verge. Visit Before You Dig Australia to check your dig site by lodging a free enquiry. 

Step 3. Complete and submit your Verge Development Application, using the City of Albany’s Verge Development Guidelines. Don't forget to include a sketch of your proposed works and a species list. You can use the City of Albany's recommended list of local species to attach to your Verge Development Application.

Step 4. City staff will review the application and inform you of the outcome or any suggested amendments.

Step 5. Upon Verge Development approval, take a “before” photo and commence works to prepare your site.

Step 6. Landscape your verge according to the approved plan, planting during 1 May to 1 October only and take an “after” photo.

Step 7. Complete the Waterwise Verge Rebate Application Form. Before and after photos and copies of receipts can 

uploaded to this form.

Step 8. Successful applicants will be provided with a Refund/Contribution Request Form which will enable the rebate to be paid.

Applications are to be made to the City of Albany via online form, or printed forms can be:

  • Scanned and emailed to [email protected]
  • Handed in person to the Administration Centre at 102 North Road, Yakamia
  • Posted to the City of Albany, PO Box 484, Albany WA 6331

Planning and species selection

In keeping with waterwise best practice, your verge garden can only be planted between 1 May and 1 October. Planting during the cooler, wetter months gives plants time establish strong healthy root systems, which reduces the risk of plant losses during the hot and dry weather conditions.

Preparing your site by removing lawn and weeds is an important step. This can be a hard task and may be done either manually or using a natural herbicide. You’ll need to factor in an appropriate amount of time to complete this prior to planting season.

The following guides will help you consider steps to prepare the site and choose locally native species: 

Coastal Gardens: A planting guide for Albany, Denmark and the Walpole Coastal Region – South Coast NRM/Greenskills

How to create a waterwise verge – Water Corporation

Local plant species recommended for Waterwise verge gardens

Staff at your local nursery can also provide advice on what to plant in your area.

Sources of locally native plants

  • Albany Farm Tree Nursery
  • Ardess Nursery
  • Bunnings
  • Habitat Tree Farm Denmark
  • Morande Native Plant Nursery
  • Lush Garden Gallery
  • Rainbow Coast Neighbourhood Community Garden
  • South Regional TAFE Nursery

Have we missed a business on this list? If you're a local business selling native plants, please let us know and we can add your details! Email [email protected]. 

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