The Federal Government’s Green Army – a central part of its attempt at environmental policy – needs more people.

Environment Minister Greg Hunt has put out a plea this week for people to sign up the scheme.

“Are you aged between 17 and 24 and interested in gaining practical training and experience while being paid to work in your local environment? Or do you know someone who might be?” Mr Hunt’s statement asked.

“Think about joining the growing band of local people working on local projects to help protect Australia's environment.”

Hunt says potential project hosts and young Australians may be interested in Community Information Sessions that will be on in August. The sessions will discuss ways to get involved in the Australian Government's Green Army Programme, and ways to get Green Army support for existing projects.

Just 330 projects have rolled out across Australia in the first year of the Green Army scheme, but Mr Hunt claims this will pick up rapidly and build to 1,500 projects in 2018-19.

Green Army funding includes a six-month programme for 17-24 year olds to train and work in the environment on projects include restoring native vegetation, protecting animal habitats and regenerating wetlands.

The information sessions will be at 22 locations across all states and territories. They should provide an opportunity for communities to find out more about hosting a Green Army project and for interested young people information on how to join.

Community organisations will be able to apply for new projects as part of Round Four of the Green Army to be announced shortly.

“I encourage all local community organisations to attend these sessions to hear directly from representatives from the Department of the Environment and Green Army Service Providers who will be available to answer any questions about the programme,” Mr Hunt said.

The full schedule of information sessions and other details are available here.