Community groups across Leichhardt will be supported by a new Morrison Government program to lower energy costs, support local jobs and help reduce global emissions.
The Powering Communities Program will fund up to 12 projects worth a total of $67,700 in each electorate.
The Powering Communities Program will help community groups across Leichhardt get control of their energy use, while helping to play a part in reducing global emissions and ensure a healthy environment for future generations.
Grants of between $5,000 and $12,000 will be available to eligible community organisations, with no co-contribution required.
Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said when not-for-profit groups invest in their community, it helps local economies to grow and supports local jobs.
He said the grant will assist groups to lower their energy bills by installing solar panels or a battery, upgrading air conditioners, hot water systems or a refrigerator with more efficient models, replacing lighting with LEDs or conducting an energy audit.
“Energy bills are often one of the biggest overheads for not-for-profit organisations,” Mr Entsch 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 Cairns and Far North Queensland do and know that many have done it tough during COVID19.
“This program will help them to do what they do best, which is serve and support the community.
Powering Communities Program:
Interested organisations must request an Expression of Interest form by emailing warren.entsch.mp@aph.gov.au
A staff member will then send you the Expressions of Interest form, Powering Communities Program Guidelines and Factsheet.
Expressions of Interest forms must be submitted back to the office before close of business on Friday, 28 May 2021.
All Expressions of Interest will then be considered by a local independent community consultation panel.
Mr Entsch, after consultation with the independent panel, will notify the successful organisations via email in the week commencing Monday, 5 July 2021.
The Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources will then send an official application form to nominated organisations to apply for funding.
Successful applicants will then have until Monday, 20 September 2021 to submit necessary and required documentation so the grant can be awarded.