Steplight reviews and updates this list of sustainability grants and funding opportunities about once a week. Feel free to share the link with others who may be interested: steplight.com.au/grants. If you know of a grant which is not on our list please contact us at the bottom of this page.
Upcoming Grants
Environment grants
Dr Edward Hall environment grants: this Grants program provides financial assistance for schools, community groups and businesses to develop projects or events or specific elements of ongoing programs that increase and enhance the environmental and sustainability values of our built and natural environments. Grants of between $500 and $5000 are awarded.
Organisation: Hobart City Council
Submission date: 23rd May 2012
Ian Potter Foundation Environment and Conservation
The aim of the Ian Potter Foundation Environment and Conservation Grants is to support Australian urban and regional communities to live sustainably and preserve biodiversity. This is considered important in the context of a challenging future due to factors such as land degradation, Australia’s limited water resources and climate change.
Environment & Conservation grants are of two types. The Foundation has a particular interest in supporting programs and research that promote sustainable approaches to agriculture, opportunities within the carbon economy and land management practices that encompass a landscape-scale approach to protecting areas of high conservation value. In addition, the Foundation supports smaller projects by recognising the important role played by volunteers and environmental organisations in increasing public understanding and awareness.
Organisation: Ian Potter Foundation
Submission date: 28th May 2012
Community climate change grants
These grants fund on-ground actions which help reduce the impact on the environment and ensure it is protected for future generations to enjoy. This year’s priority theme is ‘Supporting Action on Climate Change’.
Organisation: NT Government
Submission date: 31/05/2012
WA Solar Schools Program
Western Australian (WA) Solar Schools Program supports solar power systems installed in WA schools. The objectives of the program are to:
- enable students to learn about renewable energy and ways to save energy
- raise community awareness of sustainable energy
- increase the uptake of renewable energy
- lead to the long term reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Organisation: Office of Energy
Submission date: 1st June 2012
Community grants
The Swan Grants program was established to support community projects that improve the wellbeing of a community and/or environmental sustainability.
Organisation: City of Swan
Submission date: Wed 06/06/2012 – 2pm
Grants – Indigenous Heritage Program
The Indigenous Heritage Program (IHP) is an ongoing competitive annual grants program which provides $3.645 million to support the identification, conservation, and promotion of heritage places important to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Since 2004, the program has provided over $25 million to support more than 450 Indigenous heritage projects across Australia.
Organisation: Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities
Submission dates: 6th June 2012 – 5pm
Queensland Sustainable Energy Innovation Fund
The Queensland Sustainable Energy Innovation Fund (QSEIF) assists Queensland organisations develop innovative technologies that reduce energy and water consumption.
The program focuses on the development and commercialisation of sustainable technologies. Since 1999, QSEIF has committed more than $9 million in funding to over 80 innovative energy and water saving projects in Queensland.
Some projects funded through the QSEIF program have proceeded to commence production, sales or licensing; raised substantial investment capital; exported around the world; and employed scientific, technical and other skilled staff.
Organisation: Queensland Government
Submission date: 29th June 2012
Sustainable Events Grants
The Sustainable Events Grants Program is designed to support community groups and organisations in the development and provision of annual events over a period of four years to provide the group time to make the event financially self sustaining.
Events are to be inclusive of our local community and open to the general public with or without an admission fee. Events held for raising funds for purposes other than the sustainability of the event itself are ineligible i.e. all proceeds from each event are to be allocated to the staging of the following years event.
The maximum grant provided to any one group will be $7,000, over a four-year period and dependant upon the satisfactory acquittal of the previous year’s funding. Only applicants who are able to contribute toward the project in cash or in kind will be considered. Applications are invited twice yearly in March and September. Funding rounds are advertised in local papers and the City’s Cockburn Soundings.
Organisation: City of Cockburn
Submission date: 28th September 2012
Open-ended submission
Clean Technology Investment Program
The Clean Technology Investment Program is a central element of the Australian Government’s Clean Energy Future plan announced in July 2011. The Clean Energy Future plan provides transitional assistance for businesses and industry through the $8.6 billion Jobs and Competitiveness Program, the $1.2 billion Clean Technology Program, the $300 million Steel Transformation Plan and the $1.3 billion Coal Sector Jobs Package.
The Clean Technology Investment Program (the Program) is an $800 million competitive, merit-based grants program to support Australian manufacturers to maintain competitiveness in a carbon constrained economy. This program will provide grants for investments in energy efficient capital equipment and low pollution technologies, processes and products.
Organisation: AusIndustry
EcoTender
Under EcoTender, landholders are invited to tender contracts to deliver these multiple environmental benefits, primarily by means of improved native vegetation management and revegetation works on their properties.
Successful bids include activities offering the best value for money to the community, based on ecosystem outcomes, the significance of the environmental assets affected by these changes and the cost. Successful landholders receive periodic payments as they deliver the management actions under contractual agreements with the Department of Sustainability & Environment.
Under EcoTender, landholders are paid to manage their land and water resources in ways that provide environmental improvements.
Actions include:
- weed and pest control
- fencing and planting of native vegetation
- protection of gullies and wetlands
- stock control
Organisation: Victorian Department of Sustainability & Environment
Climate Change and Sustainability grant
The Climate Change and Sustainability grant stream provides financial assistance to not-for-profit community groups that wish to pursue projects and activities which promote sustainability and enhance community resilience to climate change and/or peak oil.
The aim of the Climate Change and Sustainability grant stream is to encourage groups and individuals in the community to take the initiative to develop programs, activities, projects and events which make a positive contribution to promoting sustainable communities, improving energy efficiency, or enhancing community resilience to climate change.
Organisation: Cairns Regional Council
Corridors of Green Grants
We support local councils and other public land managers to implement on-the-ground projects that improve the condition of our rivers and creeks.
The Corridors of Green program has provided $3.2 million in grants to local councils and Parks Victoria since it was established in 1999. Local councils and public land managers with management responsibility of land adjacent to creeks or rivers in the Port Phillip and Westernport region are encouraged to apply.
A maximum of $20,000 in funding (exclusive of GST) is available to projects addressing river and creek health. Funding can be used for a range of project related activities including weed control and management, native streamside (riparian) fencing, indigenous plantings and stream frontage management plans.
Organisation: Melbourne Water
Victorian Solar in Schools Program
Victorian schools, kindergartens and eligible community organisations can apply for the Victorian Solar in Schools rebate of up to $5,000 to install solar photovoltaic (PV) power systems. Eligible community organisations are either government-owned or incorporated not-for-profit organisations. These include but are not limited to:
- kindergartens, early childhood centres, pre-schools, TAFEs and universities
- local government buildings used by community organisations and for community purposes
- buildings used by organisations involved in conservation, environmental or community activities
Victorian Solar in Schools supports these groups to:
- install grid connected solar photovoltaic (PV) power systems
- install interactive energy monitoring systems
- provide educational materials on renewable energy and energy demand.
Organisation: Sustainability Victoria
Grants – biodiversity and environmental sustainability
The Our Living Coast Project, funded by the NSW Environmental Trust is offering small sponsorship grants for public events and projects promoting sustainability in the Nambucca Shire. the objectives of Our Living Coast are:
- to improve biodiversity and sustainability outcomes
- to increase the community’s ability to achieve environmental improvements and conserve biodiversity
- to improve the three Council’s response to sustainability and
- to build and strengthen local and regional partnerships for better environmental and sustainability outcomes.
Organisation: NSW Environment Trust / Nambucca Shire Council
Climate Communities Grants Program
The Climate Communities grants program will help to link existing community networks centred around local councils, service clubs, schools and environment groups. The key objectives are to support local communities to:
- reduce emissions
- build community resilience to adapt to climate change
- trial and/or promote new ideas to help tackle climate change.
Organisation: Department of Planning and Community Development (Victoria)
Find Green Money
A wide range of funding opportunities is on offer for specific energy and water saving products and services as well as for environmental management strategies and educational programmes. The purpose of Find Green Money is to connect individuals and groups with those funding opportunities.
Organisation: Find Green Money
Grants Archive
Energy efficiency grants
NRM North is offering grants to small businesses wanting to reduce their environmental footprint and save money. The Energy Efficiency for Small Business Program offers grants of between $100 and $1500 to participants of the 2007 EcoSmartBiz Program and the 2009/2012 EcoSmart Greening Launceston Program.
The program offers an energy assessment, a tailored action plan and a rebate of up to $1500 for making energy efficiency improvements.
Rebates will be paid for improvements to:
- Lighting (including skylights)
- Heating
- Ventilation and air conditioning
- Boilers
- Air compressors
- Commercial refrigeration
- Electric motors
- Insulation
Organisation: NRM North
Submission date: 11/5/2012
Clean technology investment programs
The Clean Technology Investment Program and Clean Technology Food & Foundries Investment Program provide $1bn in funding to help Australian manufacturers transition to a clean energy future and become cleaner, more efficient and more sustainable. The programs are a central part of the Australian Government’s Clean Energy Future Plan.
Grants are available to help manufacturers to invest in energy efficient capital equipment and low pollution technologies, processes and products.
Organisation: AusIndustry
Submission date: Unspecified (Entered – 21/04/2012)
The National Solar Schools Program (NSSP)
The National Solar Schools Program (NSSP) has opened for applications.
The program offers eligible primary and secondary schools the opportunity to compete for grants of up to $50 000 (GST exclusive), to install solar and other renewable power systems, solar hot water systems, rainwater tanks and a range of energy efficiency measures including: energy-efficient lighting, skylights, ceiling fans, sensors, shade awnings, automatic doors, double glazing.
Organisation: Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
Submission dates: 4th May 2012
Corporate Express Junior Landcare Go Green Grants Program
Corporate Express and Landcare Australia are proud to launch a $75,000 grants program to fund environmental projects in schools and community groups across the country.
Fifteen successful schools and groups will receive a Go Green Grant of up to $5,000 to support innovative projects that bring about education in environmental issues, focus on sustainability, promote recycling initiatives or help improve the school’s or local area’s natural environment.
Corporate Express understands that the next generation of Landcarers can make all the difference to the planet and has partnered with Landcare Australia to support the local schools and youth groups that educate this next generation about the importance of environmental conservation and protection.
Organisation: Landcare Australia
Submission dates: 1st May 2012
Energy Efficiency Initiatives
Tenders are invited to implement energy efficiency upgrades to reduce energy consumption at Council’s aquatic centres, community halls, libraries, administration and depot buildings.
The works will include but are not limited to lighting, solar installations, roof and ceiling insulation and heat pump replacement, together with establishing and reporting on energy efficiency outcomes and savings.
Organisation: Sunshine Coast Regional Council
Submission dates: 24 Apr 2012 at 12:00PM
City of Darwin – Community Grants Program
City of Darwin’s Community Grants Program assists projects or events directly benefiting and promoting the City of Darwin and which have broad community appeal. Each year Council allocates $100,000 for community projects and $50,000 for community based climate change and environment projects.
To be eligible, applicants must be an incorporated not-for-profit community organisation or a community group that is not incorporated but has an auspicing incorporated body.
Submissions for funding are invited in March and September of each year.
Organisation: City of Darwin
Submission dates: 13th April 2012
Funding – Better Catchments program
The Better Catchments program has been created to assist the Burnett Mary Regional Group to deliver on-ground projects in partnership with landholders. Funding incentives are provided to landholders to adopt land management practices that will improve soil health and enhance sustainability. On-ground incentives focus on improving sustainability of farming and grazing practices, to improve soil condition, enhance carbon content of soils, and reduce the risks of soil erosion and soil acidification. Better Catchments is funded by the Australian Government through Caring for Our Country program, and contributes to the Sustainable Farm Practices target.
The Better Catchments program is delivered via workshop training, and only participants who attend workshops are eligible to apply.
Organisation: Burnett Mary Regional Group
Submission dates: 9th April 2012 – 5pm
EnvironmeNT grants – Greening the Territory
There are five categories of grants available including:
- Climate Change
- Invasive Species Management
- Waste and Resource Recovery
- Water Conservation
- Wildlife Conservation
If you have an idea that will help look after our environment and would like to learn more about applying for an EnvironmeNT Grant please click here for more information on eligibility or the application process.
Organisation: NT Government
Submission dates: School Round – 5th April 2012
A Better Tomorrow Sustainability Grants
A Better Tomorrow Sustainability Grants will assist the City’s stakeholders in the development and implementation of a range of sustainability projects. You can receive up to $4,000 per application. Community groups, not-for-profit organisations, small businesses (<20 employees), households (collective>2) and schools are eligible to apply for the A Better Tomorrow Grants.
Grant themes include ‘Giving back’, ‘Protecting our future’, ‘Strong Communities’, ‘Water, Energy and Waste’ and ‘TravelSmart’.
Organisation: City of Cockburn
Submission dates: 31st March 2012
Community Small Grants 2012
Community Small Grants are now open for projects that aim to achieve an environment in the Avon River Basin (ARB) that is healthier, better protected, well-managed, resilient and provides essential ecosystem services in a changing climate.
For further information, advice on how to achieve biodiversity outcomes or an application form please contact Kerry Skinner on 9690 2254 or email kskinner@wheatbeltnrm.org.au
Organisation: Wheatbelt Natural Resource Management
Submission dates: 30th March 2012- 5pm
Hunter Water’s Community Funding Program
Community grants are now available for local organisations in Newcastle, Dungog, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Cessnock and Port Stephens.
Projects eligible for funding: projects which give direct benefit to the community and reflect Hunter Water’s vision, mission and corporate objectives while focusing on water conservation, sustainability and environmental and social outcomes.
Organisation: Hunter Water
Submission dates: 30th March 2012- 5pm
Community Action Grants 2012-13
Community Action Grants are a small grants component of the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country initiative that aims to help local community groups take action to conserve and protect their natural environment. The grants are targeted towards established local community-based organisations that are successfully delivering projects to support sustainable farming and/or protect and enhance the natural environment.
Each year, investment proposals are sought from environmental, Indigenous, Landcare, Coastcare and sustainable agriculture community groups for grants of between $5000 and $20 000 (GST exclusive) to take action to help protect and conserve Australia’s natural resources and environment.
The grants are available to groups currently operating in the environmental and sustainable land management sector, as well as to established and emerging Indigenous organisations. Individuals are not eligible to apply for Community Action Grants.
Organisation: Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities
Submission dates: 27th March 2012
Community Energy Efficiency Program
The Community Energy Efficiency Program is a merit-based grant program established by the Commonwealth Government to provide matched funding to local councils and non-profit community organisations to undertake energy efficiency upgrades and retrofits to council and community-use buildings, facilities and lighting.
Organisation: Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
Submission dates: Friday 23rd March 2012
Energy Efficiency Information Grants Program Round One
Clear information from trusted sources will be vital in helping small and medium enterprises and community organisations improve their energy efficiency. The Australian Government has established a $40 million program providing grants over four years to industry associations and non-profit organisations that work with small and medium enterprises and community organisations.
The Energy Efficiency Information Grants Program is a merit-based grants program established by the Commonwealth Government to assist industry associations and non profits provide practical, tailored energy efficiency information to small and medium enterprises and community organisations.
Organisation: Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
Submission dates: Friday 16th March 2012
Low Income Energy Efficiency Program – applying for funding
The Low Income Energy Efficiency Program is a merit-based grant program established by the Commonwealth Government to provide grants to consortia of government, business and community organisations to trial approaches to improve the energy efficiency of low-income households and enable them to better manage their energy use.
Organisation: Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
Submission dates: Friday 16th March 2012
ResourceSmart AuSSI Vic Initiative – Grants
The Victorian Government has committed $8.305 million over four years to build on the existing ResourceSmart Australian Sustainable Schools Initiative Victoria (ResourceSmart AuSSI Vic) framework. Sustainability Victoria and the Department of Education and Early Childhood (DEECD) are working in partnership on this Initiative.
Grants are available for service providers to support schools through the ResourceSmart AuSSI Vic Initiative.
Organisation: Sustainability Victoria / DEECD
Submission dates: 7th March 2012
Environmental Sustainability Grants
This grants program is designed to support community-initiated projects that improve our local environment and inspire environmentally sustainable behaviour within our community. Not-for-profit community organisations such as groups, clubs, and schools located or operating within Lake Macquarie are encouraged to apply for grants of up to $3000.
Priority will be given to projects that:
- Assist community groups to enhance local ecosystems
- Demonstrate clear environmental education outcomes
- Demonstrate sustained reduction in resource consumption
- Reduce the community’s exposure to environmental risks e.g. natural disasters
- Involve the wider community
- Have a clear and well-balanced budget
- Have undertaken consultation with relevant Council staff
- Assist schools to implement activities identified in their School Environmental Management Plan
- Assist Sustainable Neighbourhood Groups to implement actions/projects identified in their draft or final Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Plan (SNAP)
- Assist community groups to implement actions/projects identified in a regional or local environmental/sustainability management plan
- Are new and are being undertaken by groups that have received minimal funding in the past.
Organisation: City of Lake Macquarie
Submission dates: 5th March 2012
Action on the Ground program (Carbon Farming Futures)
Action on the Ground is a component of Carbon Farming Futures and will invest up to $99 million of grant funding over six years to assist individuals and groups of landholders and research, industry and farming organisations across Australia to trial and demonstrate on-farm ways of reducing agricultural greenhouse gas emissions and/or increasing and maintaining carbon stored in soil.
Action on the Ground on-farm projects will create new opportunities for landholders and farmers to participate in the Carbon Farming Initiative (CFI) by trialling and demonstrating outcomes from research programs including, but not limited to, the Climate Change Research Program and the Filling the Research Gap program. Projects under Action on the Ground will ensure that research results can be practically applied on the ground in real farming situations.
Action on the Ground is designed to enable on-farm trial and demonstration of practices and abatement technologies to reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions and/or increase carbon stored in soil. This will be achieved by supporting landholders, research, industry, non-government, government and farmer ‘care’ ‘grower’ groups/organisations come together to trial and demonstrate management practices and technologies on-farm that can reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions and/or increase carbon stored in soil.
Organisation: Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
Submission dates: 8th February 2012
Energy Efficiency Upgrade – electrical work
CAIRNS Ambulance Station, INNISFAIL Ambulance Station & INNISFAIL Police Headquarters have issued a tender for the electrical work of Energy Efficiency Upgrade.
Organisation: Project Services, Department of Public Works
Submission dates: Friday 17th February, 2012
Filling the Research Gap Grants
Filling the Research Gap is a component of Carbon Farming Futures and will invest $201 million to support research into emerging abatement technologies, strategies and innovative management practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the land sector, sequester carbon and enhance sustainable agricultural practices.
Filling the Research Gap will build on research undertaken through the Climate Change Research Program. Projects will target current research gaps around abatement technologies and practices. Research priorities are reducing methane emissions, reducing nitrous oxide emissions, sequestering carbon and improving modelling capability.
Research outcomes will underpin the development of new abatement methodologies that land managers can use to participate in the Carbon Farming Initiative (CFI). The CFI voluntary carbon offsets scheme allows participating land managers to earn additional income from reducing emissions and storing carbon in the landscape.
Organisation: Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
Submission dates: 3rd February 2012
Community Sustainability Grants
In order to assist organisations and individuals with their chosen pursuits, the Southern Grampians Shire Council offers a range of grant programs through the Community Grants Program to allow initiatives to be realised whilst contributing to a more engaged, livable community. The Community Sustainability Grants offers up to $2500 successful applicants. This program aims to support the Southern Grampians community to develop and promote projects which contribute toward objectives detailed in the Southern Grampians Shire Sustainability Strategy.
Organisation: Southern Grampians Shire Council
Submission dates: 1st February, 2012
Biodiversity Fund
The Biodiversity Fund will invest around $946m over the next six years to help land managers store carbon, enhance biodiversity and build greater environmental resilience across the Australian landscape. To do this, it will fund eligible land managers for activities which restore, manage and better protect biodiversity on public and private land. It will also provide support to land managers who wish to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the new carbon market. The Biodiversity Fund will provide support to establishing new carbon stores or better managing carbon stores of existing native habitat. The Biodiversity Fund will invest in three main areas:
- Biodiverse plantings
- Protecting and enhancing existing native vegetation
- Managing threats to biodiversity
Organisation: Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities
Submission date: 5:00pm, Tuesday 31st January
Communities for Nature Grants program
The Victorian Coalition Government has launched a new grants program to enable local communities to conduct work that will protect and enhance their local environment.
The program will provide $20 million to support the community over four years, enabling small projects with grants to successful applicants of up to $10,000 and large projects with grants to successful applicants of between $10,000 and $150,000.
Examples of projects include:
- Revegetation
- Biodiversity and habitat preservation
- Cleaning up waterways
- Weed control
- Threatened species recovery
Organisation: Victorian Coalition Government
Submission dates: 19 December 2011
Climate Connect Grants Program
Do you have a project idea that will help Tasmanian communities and industries adapt to the impacts of climate change? You may want to apply for a ClimateConnect grant. Eligible applicants can apply for funding of up to $20,000.
The objective of the ClimateConnect grants program is to enable Tasmanian communities and industries to adapt to the opportunities and risks from climate change. The types of project ideas that may be funded include:
- identifying and responding to climate-related thresholds and trigger points
- developing adaptation plans
- developing and delivering climate change adaptation communication tools and training modules
- trialling new strategies to manage or respond to a particular climate change impact
- undertaking a cost-benefit analysis of proposed adaptation actions
- engaging with a community to discuss options for managing, protecting and/or relocating facilities that may be at risk from climate change.
Organisation: Tasmanian Climate Change Office
Submission dates: 5pm, Friday 16th December 2011
BFA Organic School Gardens – Vitasoy Starter Schools Program
Vitasoy’s Starter Schools Program has been developed to support schools that may require assistance to establish their school gardens and are at the beginning of their Organic School Gardens program journey. Schools must be registered with the Biological Farmers of Australia (BFA) Organic School Gardens Program and be committed to using the BFA Organic School Gardens Program lessons at some stage in 2011.
Organisation: Biological Farmers of Australia and Vitasoy
Submission date: November 28th, 2011
Climate change adaptation research grants – Indigenous communities
Proposals are invited for research around the contribution of indigenous communities to Australia’s adaptation response to climate change, the resilience and vulnerability of indigenous communities to climate change, and the knowledge needs of indigenous communities for effective adaptation.
Seed funding totalling up to $2m is available to address research priorities in the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Plan: Indigenous Communities developed by the NCCARF.
Organisation: National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility (NCCARF)
Submission date: 28th October 2011
Community grants program
Darwin City Council’s Community Grants Program assists projects or events directly benefiting and promoting the City of Darwin and which have broad community appeal. Each year Council allocates $100,000 for community projects and this year is proud to announce an additional $50,000 for community based climate change and environment projects.
Organisation: Darwin City Council
Submission dates: Submissions open Saturday 10th September with a closing date of Friday 14th of October 2011
Environmental Levy Fund
Council’s successful Environmental Levy Fund program is open for the next round of funding, with $28 000 in the offing for on-ground works and for the first time, community sustainability projects. The Council’s Environmental Levy funds a range of on ground works such as riverbank improvements and noxious weed management.
The new community sustainability category invites a broader perspective on environmental restoration. Examples of prospective projects include working with a local school group to conduct an energy audit and develop an emissions reduction plan; organizing a community art project/exhibition that addresses an aspect of sustainability; organizing a sustainability film festival; or a place-making project that enhances the Shire’s public spaces.
Organisation: Bellingen Shire Council
Submission date: 21st October 2011
Raymond Borland Bequest Grant Program
The Durness-Borland Landcare corridor is a substantial biodiversity corridor that is being established in the coastal hinterland of the lower Myall River, partly funded by a generous philanthropic bequest from the estate of the late Raymond Borland to Landcare Australia. All community groups or organisations involved in caring for and managing our landscapes and rivers are invited to apply. The grants are particularly targeted towards established local community-based organisations that are successfully delivering projects to protect and improve the natural environment in non-urban areas.
Individual grants of up to $30,000 are now available to support community groups and other organisations undertake projects that will repair and rehabilitate degraded non-urban land and non-tidal waterways in NSW. Landcare Australia and the Raymond Borland Bequest are providing total of $300,000 (excluding GST) for the grants.
Organisation: Landcare Australia
Submission date: 16th October 2011
Mayor’s Green Grants Program
If you have a great idea to improve our local environment, then Kogarah City Council is offering a small grant to help you get started! This program aims to support community initiatives that address environmental issues such as:
- Waste minimization or recycling
- Sustainable water use
- Saving energy or greenhouse emissions
- Improving local biodiversity
- Education for sustainable living
- Sustainable transport
- Fostering environmentally sustainable behavior
Funding is open to: individuals, community groups, schools, not-for-profit organisations and businesses can apply for this funding. The project must be carried out in the Kogarah City Council local government area.
Organisation: Kogarah City Council
Submission date: 5pm, Monday 10th October 2011
Community Environmental Project Grant
Community Environmental Project Grants provide an opportunity for local not-for-profit community organisations and groups to access funding for local innovative environmental projects. This may be initiatives to implement or enhance water conservation, waste reduction and/or recycling, energy conservation or re-vegetation/biodiversity projects. It is expected that such projects or services have measurable outcomes for the community or target group. Projects that align with Environmental Management or Natural Resource Management in the Council Plan 2009-2013 are highly recommended.
Community Environmental Project Grants are available to not-for-profit incorporated groups and organisations based with Mildura Rural City Council. All applicants must have public liability insurance.
Organisation: Mildura Rural City Council
Submission date: Friday 7th October 2011
Environmental Sustainability Grants
Need support for your environmental project? Apply for the next round of Lake Macquarie City Council’s Environmental Sustainability Grants. The program is open to all not-for-profit community organisations such as groups, clubs, and schools interested in developing or continuing an environmental sustainability project within Lake Macquarie during 2012. Successful applicants will receive up to $3,000 in funding toward the delivery of their community-based project.
Organisation: Lake Macquarie City Council
Submission date: 19th September 2011
National Solar Schools Program
The National Solar Schools Program (NSSP) has opened for registrations. The program offers eligible primary and secondary schools the opportunity to compete for grants of up to $50,000 (GST exclusive), to install solar and other renewable power systems, solar hot water systems, rainwater tanks and a range of energy efficiency measures including:
- Energy efficient lighting
- Skylights
- Ceiling fans
- Sensors
- Shade awnings
- Automatic doors
- Double glazing
Organisation: Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
Submission date: The 2011-12 application round will open on 1st August and close on 30th September 2011
Teachers Environment Fund
Our schools are an essential role in contributing to sustainability, not only in reducing their environmental impact but ensuring future leaders recognise importance.
Through the Teachers Environment Fund, Teachers Credit Union aims to support projects that not only benefit the environment, but provide practical teaching example. It is available to public schools and TAFEs in NSW, ACT, NT and WA and are allocated for:
- energy and water saving projects
- composting and recycling projects
- outdoor and biodiversity projects
- any other environmental projects deemed suitable
Organisation: Teachers Credit Union
Submission date: 16th September, 2011
Sustainability Small Grants Program
Under the Sustainability Small Grants Program, local community organisations can apply for grants of up to $2000 for community sustainability projects.
The Sustainability Small Grants Program will fund projects that:
1. Increase the environmental sustainability of Lane Cove through projects that have direct and measurable positive environmental outcomes in relation to:
- Energy consumption;
- Water consumption;
- Waste avoidance, recycling and reuse;
- Biodiversity and bushland; or
- Sustainable transport.
2. Encourage the Lane Cove community to adopt more environmentally sustainable attitudes and behaviours.
Organisation: Lane Cove Council
Submission Date: Applications close 4pm, Monday 5th of September 2011
NAB Schools First Grants
The NAB Schools First Awards has $5 million in funding available to outstanding school-community partnerships. This includes 50 x Seed funding Awards ($25 000 each) and 60 x Impact Awards ($50, 000 each). Impact award winners will then be in the running for 8 x State/Territory Awards (a further $50 000 each) and 1 x National Award (a further $400 000).
Organisation: National Australia Bank (NAB)
Submission date: Applications open at 9:00am (AEST), Monday, 20th July 2011 and close 5:00pm (AEST) Friday, 29th July, 2011.
Grants to Voluntary Environment, Sustainability and Heritage Organisations (GVESHO)
The Grants to Voluntary Environment, Sustainability and Heritage Organisations (GVESHO) program helps eligible community based organisations to value, conserve and protect Australia’s natural environment and historic heritage and to promote sustainability by assisting with their administrative costs.
Grants provided through the program may be used to assist with salaries and salary on-costs for executive and administrative staff; office accommodation rental; electricity, gas, phone and other similar charges; essential office supplies and equipment; staff and volunteer training; photocopying and printing costs; and travel costs incurred on behalf of the organisation.
Organisation: Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities
Submission date: 5:00pm, 29th July 2011
Climate Change Grant Program
The Climate Change Grant Program aims to help the Australian public understand the need to act on climate change and reveal the opportunities and benefits of a clean energy future. Organisations will be given the opportunity to apply for grants of up to $250 000 to share their stories and demonstrate the opportunities associated with Australia moving to a clean energy future. Applications and more information available from June 30th, 2011.
Organisation: Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
Submission date: 5:00pm, July 28th, 2011
Funding – Sustainable innovation fund
The Queensland Sustainable Energy Innovation Fund (QSEIF) is administered by the Sustainable Community Division of the Department of Environment and Resource Management and assists Queensland based organisations with the development of innovative technologies that reduce energy and water consumption. The program focuses on the development and commercialisation of sustainable technologies rather than pure research.
Organisation: Department of Environment and Resource Management
Submission date: Draft Applications due 1/7/2011. Expected notification of outcomes to applicants 5/12/2011
Environmental Education Grants
The Aim of the program is to support educational projects or programs that develop or widen the community’s knowledge of, skills in, and commitment to protect the environment and promoting sustainable behaviour.
Organisation: NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water
Submission dates: Expressions of interest (EOI) due by Thursday, April 21, 2011. Full applications will be accepted in July 2011.
RACV Community Foundation Grants
The RACV Community Foundation provides a source of philanthropic funding for charitable and community organisations across Victoria. Grants of up to $10,000 will be awarded to proposals which fall within one of the priority areas. The Foundation will support programs and activities conducted by community organisations that aim to promote Environmental Sustainability (priority area 3).
Organisation: RACV
Submission date: Applications close at 5pm, Friday 1st July.
Low Emissions Energy Development Fund
The Low Emissions Energy Development (LEED) Fund supports the technological development required to cut greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector and contributes to the national target of 20 % renewable energy by 2020.
Organisation: Department of Environment & Conservation (DEC) WA
Submission date: 29th June 2011
Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program Grants
Funding is available to Victorian Schools through the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Victorian Program. Each successful school will receive a grant of $62, 500 with $12, 500 appointed towards building a kitchen and garden and $50, 000 towards staffing the Kitchen Garden program for 2 years.The Program supports students to manage a garden, grow their own produce and create their own meals, links to classroom programs and school curriculums and emphasises the importance of teamwork, student engagements and community partnerships.
Organisation: Australian Government
Submission date: Applications for funding close 3rd June, 2011
Community Grants Funding Program
The Community Grants Funding Program offers assistance to incorporated, not-for-profit community groups on an annual basis. Its objectives are to develop and promote a range of services and leisure opportunities, to encourage increased community participation in activities and services within the municipality and to build and strengthen local networks and encourage partnerships with council in order to facilitate the effective use of community resources and encourage sustainability of services and programs.
Organisation: Maroondah City Council
Submission date: 3rd June 2011 by 4:00pm
Caring for our Country
Caring for our Country is an Australian Government initiative that seeks to achieve an environment that is healthy, better protected, well-managed and resilient, and provides essential ecosystem services in a changing climate. We seek community partners who can improve the sustainable management of natural resources within the following priority areas:
- the national reserve system
- biodiversity and natural icons
- coastal environments and critical aquatic habitats
- sustainable farm practices
- northern and remote Australia
- community skills, knowledge and engagement
Organisation: Australian Government
Submission dates: All proposals must be submitted by 5:00pm (EST), 30th May 2011.(Regional Based expressions of interest due 16th May 2011)
Eco Schools Grants
The overall objective of the Eco Schools Program is to support schools while they develop best practice in environmental education and innovative solutions to environmental issues. The Trust will fund projects which demonstrate that a school is working towards becoming environmentally sustainable. Schools that did not receive an Environmental Trust Grant in the previous year are eligible to apply.The trust is also offering information workshops for schools to help applicants understand the program and prepare a quality grant application.
Organisation: DECCW
Submission date: 20th May 2011
Grants – Renewable energy fund (King & Flinders Islands)
The Office of Energy Planning & Conservation (OEPC) at DIER will administer this program for small-scale renewable energy innovation on behalf of the Minister for Sustainable Transport & Alternative Energy. The program seeks to reduce the costs associated with energy on the Bass Strait Islands, reduce carbon emissions and develop locally based renewable energy initiatives and energy-saving measures.
Organisation: Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources Tasmania
Submission date: 20th May 2011
2011 Community Climate Change grants
The ACT Government has allocated $300,000 to Climate Change Grants to assist community organisations and individuals in building support for community action on climate change. Successful recipients of the Climate Change Grants will contribute to achieving the ACT’s greenhouse gas reduction targets in the community through, for example, community engagement, education, behaviour change and promotion of energy-efficient technologies.
Organisation: Department of the Environment, Climate Change, Energy and Water
Submission date: Previously 31 March 2011. Extended to 14 April 2011.
Critical Skills Investment Fund
The Critical Skills Investment Fund (the Fund) provides $200 million Australian Government co-funding for industry partnerships to undertake projects that provide training and employment opportunities in critical industry sectors. Participating organisations must partner with an RTO for the delivery of training. The goal of the Fund is to help increase the supply of skilled labour for enterprises in these sectors. To achieve this, the Fund will support projects that train and place job seekers into available positions, or that up-skill existing workers to meet new demands.
Organisation: Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
Submission date: 2pm Friday 8 April 2011.
Council-Community Carbon Offset Program
Moyne Shire Council is seeking applications from community groups interested in assisting Council in offsetting the greenhouse gas emissions from its fleet of vehicles. Successful applicants will receive funding of up to $1000 to go towards the purchase of plants that must be planted by the community on public land within Moyne Shire before 30 June 2012.
Organisation: Moyne Shire Council
Submission date: 5pm Friday, 8th April 2011
Energy Efficiency Training Program
Are you interested in developing energy efficiency education for accountants and business managers? Applications are invited from universities/ education providers, industry associations, accountancy firms, accounting software developers and other industry experts. Up to $960 000 is now available for energy efficiency training for accountants and business managers.
Organisation: DECCW
Submission date: Applications close 4 April 2011
Love Food Hate Waste Grants Program
The Love Food Hate Waste Program gives local councils, non-profit organisations and community groups the chance to apply for grant funding to assist with the implementation and evaluation of local food waste reduction education programs targeting households.
Organisation: Department of Environments, Climate Change and Water NSW
Submission date: Applications close Friday April 1st, 5:00pm.
City of Cockburn Sustainability Grants
A Better Tomorrow sustainability grants will assist the City’s stakeholders in the development and implementation of a range of sustainability projects. Community groups, not-for-profit organisations, small businesses, households and schools are all eligible to apply for the grants. Grant themes are ‘Giving back’, ‘Protecting our Future’, ‘Strong Communities’, ‘Water, Energy and Waste’ and ‘Travel Smart’.
Organisation: City of Cockburn, WA
Submission date: Before submitting, please contact the city’s Sustainability Officer to discuss your ideas. Applications close March 31, 2011.
Conservation and environment grants
This grant program is provided as an incentive to new or established groups to develop various programs including the conservation of resources, reducing waste and pollution or maintaining and enhancing the natural environment. Grants are available to assist local group, schools and individuals with the cots of organising and implementing conservation and sustainability programs.
Organisation: Banyule City Council
Submission date: Open from Feb 1st – March 31st 2011
Funding for building owners – Reduce water & energy use
Funding is available under Tune Up Canberra for owners of commercial office buildings to reduce water and energy use, emissions and costs. The ACT Government dollar-for-dollar program will pay:
- up to $8000 for a Tune Up report that identifies current performance and recommends improvements
- up to $100,000 to implement recommendations of a Tune Up report or an independently produced report
Organisation: ACT Planning & Land Authority
Submission date: 11 March 2011.
Education for Sustainability Grants Program
The Education for Sustainability Grants Program aims to support national strategic projects that facilitate changes in community attitudes and behaviours in support of sustainable development in Australia.
Funding has been provided to community groups, industry associations, rural organisations, local governments, universities and further education institutions and environmental and education groups.
Organisation: Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities
Environmental Sustainability Grants
This grants program is designed to support community-initiated projects that improve environmental behaviour of individuals, groups, and the general community within Lake Macquarie. Community groups and schools within the Lake Macquarie local government area can apply. Limited grants of up to $3,000 are available.
Organisation: Lake Macquarie City Council
Submission date: 9/02/2011 – 4.30pm
Grants – sustainability of dairy-farming
The Gardiner Foundation will make available to FRRR up to a total of $100,000 to fund $5,000 grants for innovative, community-driven projects. The aim of these grants is to strengthen small Victorian dairy communities, help build their capacity to deal with local issues, and enhance existing community infrastructure.
Organisation: FRRR & The Gardiner Foundation
Submission date: 25 March 2011 – 5pm
