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Save Lawson Grasslands

99% of Australia’s native grasslands have already been destroyed but Lawson Grasslands doesn’t have to be.

More than 100 experts and environmental organisations have spoken out against Defence Housing Australia’s proposal to build at Lawson Grasslands.  Over 650 people have signed a petition calling on DHA not to proceed, and in the lead-up to the 2022 Federal Election over 70 Canberrans rallied at the site, and many more wrote to their local candidates calling for action.

Together, we have been able to slow down the proposed development at Lawson Grasslands and ensure that a full Environmental Impact Statement is conducted at the site.

But the fight to save Lawson Grasslands is only just beginning…

In 2023 the Federal Environment Minister will consider whether the development at Lawson Grasslands should be approved under our national environment legislation. As part of this process we will have 20 business days to formally speak out against the proposal by making submissions.

Sign up to our action list to be informed when submissions open

Together we will demonstrate to the Environment Minister that Canberrans want to protect Lawson Grasslands.
With action from people like you we’ll stand up for a future where wildlife thrives, habitat is protected and there are no more extinctions.

What’s going on at Lawson Grasslands?

Over 99% of Natural Temperate Grasslands have been destroyed since colonisation. This has pushed species like the Golden Sun Moth, Perunga Grasshopper, and Striped Legless Lizard to the edge of extinction.
Lawson Grasslands in Belconnen is a stronghold for these species and needs to be urgently protected. But in the face of strong community opposition, Defence Housing Australia is proposing to build over site, clearing 23.52 ha of native vegetation, including 15.8ha of critically endangered Natural Temperate Grassland and 1.31 ha of critically endangered Box Gum Woodland.

Take a stand for Lawson Grasslands

Send a letter calling for the protection of Lawson Grasslands

The moth behind the movement

Despite having no mouth, and barely being able to fly 200m, the Golden Sun Moth has stolen the hearts and minds of Canberran’s. This critically endangered insect will be pushed closer toward extinction if the development at Lawson Grasslands proceeds.

Show your support by becoming buds with the Golden Sun Moth

After befriending the Golden Sun Moth you will be invited to attend a walk with a local expert to connect with nature and learn more about Grasslands. You’ll also receive updates about opportunities to take the next steps in advocating for the Golden Sun Moth!

Shop Grasslands Merchandise

Keen to show off your love for our region’s grasslands? Visit our shop for ethically made grassland-themed bags and t-shirts. All proceeds go towards supporting the Conservation Council ACT to continue campaigning

JOIN US to help shape a sustainable future.

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