Sanctuary

What went wrong

As you are probably aware, European settlers introduced numerous pest species into Australia that have decimated the indigenous plant and animal population. Feral cats are estimated to kill over 1 billion native animals every year. To give you an idea about how bad things are, more than 2,000 species are currently on the endangered list in Victoria, with 500 of those considered critically endangered.

What we are doing about it

The Homeless Project has acquired bushland about two hours drive from Melbourne. It is our goal to remove feral cats, foxes and wild dogs so that we can re-establish populations of critically endangered animals.

Until scientists can find a solution to controlling feral pests, fencing large tracts of land is the most effective way to ensure that the remaining native creatures can flourish.

Why a housing charity owns bushland

Although our two goals may seem vastly different, there is a synergy. Australians are part of a delicately balanced ecosystem. To thrive, we need to have compassion and consideration of others. Our lives are intertwined with nature, and we have a responsibility to maintain and restore the ecological balance.

Break the cycle

To help reverse a downward spiral, we bring small groups of people to the farm to help them “get back to nature”. It’s amazing how a few days away from negative influences can change a perspective and help turn things around.