A new grant scheme is offering up between $5000 and $12,000 to eligible community organisations to lower their energy costs.
There will be 12 grants for each federal electorate, and organisations will not have to contribute.
Projects such as solar panel installations or batteries, upgrading air conditioners, hot water systems or a refrigerator with more efficient models, replacing lighting with LEDs, or conducting an energy audit will all qualify.
Member for Forde, Bert van Manen said when not-for-profit groups invest in their community, it helps local economies to grow.
“Energy bills are often one of the biggest overheads for not-for-profit organisations,” Mr van Manen said.
“Whether it’s a sports club, a senior citizens club or a charity group, by helping to reduce power bills, the grants will ease the financial pressure these organisations face so they can better focus on meeting the needs of our local community.
“We recognise the great work that many community groups across our electorate do and know that many have done it tough during Covid-19. The program will help them to do what they do best, which is serve and support the community.”
Expressions of interest close April 28.
Local Federal Members of Parliament will play a key role in identifying the projects to be supported in their electorate, with the assistance of a committee that represents the local community.
