Funding for community-led climate action projects

The Palaszczuk Government is offering grants of up to $50,000 for community-based action on climate change.

Off the back of recent announcements including $192.5 million to help build the Wambo wind farm, Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon today said that $1.2 million would be made available to kick start smaller-scale, local projects aimed at reducing emissions and building resilience.

“Since 2015, the Palaszczuk Government has invested more than $4 billion in climate action, with more than 40 large-scale renewable energy projects playing a big part in driving down emissions while also creating more jobs for our state,” Minister Scanlon said.

“This is because Queenslanders want action from their governments on climate change, which we know is one of the biggest threats to our Great Barrier Reef.

“And they also want to take action in their own communities too, which is why we’ve opened up this funding.

“Local organisations and groups will be able to apply for grants of up to $50,000 to help turn their community-based ideas on climate action into a reality.

Minister Scanlon, who was visiting Cairns-based business Cardzilla to see their energy initiatives, said projects could include improving the energy efficiency of community facilities by installing energy efficient lighting, the installation of solar panels on community facilities and battery storage.

“I’m keen to see as many groups put their hand up as possible and really build on the significant efforts already underway as part of our Queensland Climate Action Plan.

“Plenty of these projects will also have the opportunity to utilise local businesses and contractors, continuing our plan for economic recovery.

The funding is being delivered through the Palaszczuk Government’s Community Sustainability Action grants program, which has seen more than 400 projects share in $17.5 million since its inception to protect the environment, clean up waste and take action on climate.

“The Palaszczuk Government has delivered the $2 billion Renewable Energy Fund, Australia’s only publicly-owned renewable energy company Clean Co and an EV-charging super highway – and this funding gives community the power to take their own action to help protect our environment.”

Applications can be made until 28 April, 2022.

To apply or for more information, head to: www.qld.gov.au/csagrants

ENDS

Media contact: Francis Dela Cruz - 0420 592 078