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.

More than 100 experts and environmental organisations have spoken out against this development, and over 650 people have signed a petition calling on DHA not to proceed. In the lead-up to the 2022 Federal Election, over 70 Canberrans rallied at the site opposing the development, and many more wrote to their local candidates calling for the development to be halted.

Last year the proposal went through its first round of approvals under national environment legislation. Despite many submissions calling for the development to be stopped - it has proceeded to the next stage.

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

Join us for a community catch-up on the evening of the 16th of May to learn about the campaign’s next steps, while hanging out with friends, and painting some banners.

When: 6:00 – 7:30pm Tuesday May 16

Where: Food Co-op 3 Kingsley St, Canberra ACT 2601

Together we can #SaveLawsonGrasslands!

Donations are welcomed to support our work to protect nature.

Please do not attend if you are feeling unwell or have been a recent close contact of someone with COVID-19. Wearing a face mask is welcomed.