Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)

Up to $650,000 available to enable community implementation

Applications are now invited from not-for-profit groups (NFPs) in remote, rural and regional communities for funding to support projects that reduce emissions and address the impacts of climate change to drive positive and sustainable environmental, social and economic outcomes.

Past CLCS grantee, Darling Downs Environment Council Inc

FRRR’s Community Led Climate Solutions program (CLCS) is offering grants to NFPs via two streams, with a total funding pool of $650,000 available for initiatives that address climate change at a local level.

  • Stream 1 – Engage and Deliver: Grants up to $20,000 for local projects that implement or build awareness of practices and solutions that can reduce emissions and benefit the community; and
  • Stream 2 – Scaling: Grants from $20,001 to $75,000 to scale locally-led initiatives that alleviate socio-economic challenges resulting from the changing climate and enable communities to decarbonise, adapt and thrive.

Grants in either stream can be used for a range of purposes, including to educate local people; adopt clean energy practices; support First Nations climate focused initiatives; reduce emissions; implement low carbon power sources; embrace reuse and regenerative practices; support solutions that deliver sustainable agriculture and food systems; encourage biodiverse ecosystems; or ensuring the transition is just for all.

Sarah Matthee, Climate Solutions Portfolio Lead at FRRR, said the CLCS program is flexible and funds a wide range of initiatives because FRRR recognises that different communities are at different stages of their climate journey.

“Every place is different, and the priorities of each community are different, including when it comes to responding to the impacts of our changing climate. That’s why we have kept the guidelines for this program broad – enabling not-for-profits to seek support for the project that will be right for their context, their climate and their community.”

“A great example is Yackatoon Retirement Village, who we were able to support with a grant to enable them install a 25kW solar array and 27kWh of batteries on the Village’s communal hall facility and main office. This installation will not only reduce costs and cut emissions, but when there are main grid outages, such as during a disaster or heatwave event, residents can access power in these communal areas. An important additional benefit is that the emergency alarms for older residents can remain operating, so they can call for help, if needed.

“We have also funded projects that support leadership in the transition, for instance the employment of a part-time coordinator on the Darling Downs to engage community members in southern inland regional Queensland on the transition to renewable energy, supporting informed decision making, mobilising action to address concerns and building awareness of opportunities.

“These are just a couple of examples of what can be funded. Anyone thinking about applying should first read the guidelines carefully to make sure we can back your project idea. And, of course, our team is also available to chat about project ideas too,” Ms Matthee said.

An online Grantseeker Workshop, including a Q&A session on the Community Led Climate Solutions grant program, will be held on Wednesday, 14 May 2025, from 12:30pm – 1:30 pm AEST. Register at https://events.humanitix.com/community-led-climate-solutions-grant-seekers-webinar

The larger Scaling Grants require an expression of interest to be lodged by 5pm AEST, 22 May 2025, with those shortlisted notified by 5 June. Full applications for the Scaling Grants, as well as for the Engage and Deliver stream, close 5.00pm AEST on 26 June 2025.

To learn more and apply, visit: https://frrr.org.au/community-led-climate-solutions. This program is generously supported by Hand Heart Pocket, Paul Ramsay Foundation, Elders Insurance, backed by the QBE Foundation and the PNI Foundation.

27 initiatives funded to enable change now and for the long-term

FRRR has awarded $685,242 in grants for 27 initiatives that will empower rural communities across Australia to adopt practices and solutions that reduce emissions and address the impacts of climate change. The projects will enable positive and sustainable environmental, social and economic outcomes.

Outdoor event
Community Led Climate Solutions grant recipient, Bendigo Sustainability Group

Thanks to the support of FRRR’s donor partners, the Community Led Climate Solutions program (CLCS) offers grants via two streams, offering different grant funding. The program allows not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) to prioritise local needs and address factors affecting the community’s ability and capacity to adopt new ideas, adapt to a changing climate and take actions to mitigate the risks of climate change.

Organisations from every state and the NT will share $417,742 in grants via the Engage and Deliver stream. Initiatives funded through this stream promote or action practices and solutions that can reduce emissions and benefit their community’s ability to adapt to changes.

Through the Scaling stream, $267,500 has been awarded across four community groups to broaden the reach of locally-led initiatives that alleviate socio-economic challenges and enable communities to thrive.

Sarah Matthee, Climate Solutions Portfolio Lead at FRRR, said that the Community Led Climate Solutions program emphasises the importance of empowering local people to lead local climate solutions.

“Local NFPs and community organisations want to play a bigger role in creating sustainable and enduring climate solutions for their communities. This program responds to that need, which is why it continues to attract more and more applications.

“The intent is to empower and enable communities to lead change, by innovating and responding to local opportunities and challenges.

“The 27 projects funded showcase a diverse range of future-focussed, community-led climate solutions, including addressing energy supply, reuse and recycling, distributing knowledge and climate risk adaptation. This diversity reinforces the fact that each community’s experience of the social, economic and environmental impacts of a changing climate is unique.

“So too are the ways that communities want to respond to those circumstances. For example, more than half the projects funded in this round are designed to develop awareness, knowledge and skills. This perhaps also reflects that community groups are at different points in their journey – and each application reflected this,” Ms Matthee explained.

Larger grants to scale existing initiatives

FRRR recognises that NFPs in remote, rural and regional Australia can find it difficult to access funds for local initiatives that address climate change. In seeking to respond to organisations scaling their impact, FRRR also offered a small number of grants to support groups to scale long-term, future-focused solutions to address climate-related challenges.

“The four projects funded via the Scaling stream advance an existing, locally-led project to a more mature state, enhancing the capacity of the local community to take an active role in the mitigation or adaptation of climate change. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these initiatives have within their communities as they progress.

“Ultimately, we hope that the rural communities and organisations that are stepping up to roll out these initiatives will inspire and encourage other communities to take relevant action, engaging both business and philanthropy in local responses.”

FRRR is grateful to partner with a growing number of like-minded organisations including Boundless Earth, Hand Heart Pocket, Paul Ramsay Foundation and Elders Insurance, which is backed by the QBE Foundation.

FRRR and its donor partners are committed to funding community-led solutions that reduce emissions and address the impacts of climate change. FRRR welcomes further contributions to this collaborative pool of funds to grow the impact that can be generated across remote, rural and regional Australia. For more information, please visit https://frrr.org.au/giving/.

The full list of grant recipients and their projects are below.

OrganisationProjectLocationGrant
STREAM 1 (<$20,000)#colspan##colspan##colspan#
NEW SOUTH WALES#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Adavale Lane Community Centre IncorporatedInstall a Solar Battery Monitor to Reduce the Use of Generated Power and Carbon Emissions
Enhance community organisation operations by installing a solar battery monitor, while also activating local education on climate solutions to reduce emissions and benefit community.
Goonumbla$3,300
Boomerang Labs Limited on behalf of StartSomeGoodGood Hustle for Climate: Empowering Sustainable and Circular Economy Action in Regional NSW
Build organisational capacity to adopt circular economy practices by hosting training workshops to create business plans for climate action initiatives.
Kempsey$19,900
Community Power Agency Co-Operative Limited on behalf of Sustainable Living Armidale (Electrify Armidale for a Renewable Energy Future) Armidale Community-Driven Shift to Renewable Energy and Sustainability
Support community groups in developing clean energy projects by offering training on clean energy transition and fostering collaboration with experts in the field.
Armidale$20,000
Growing Together South Coast IncorporatedFoodCycle: Nurturing Nature, Nourishing Neighbours
Promote circular practice by setting up a worm-farm system to convert local food waste into soil conditioner, reducing landfill and supporting a small-scale, local food system.
Milton$20,000
Hope Bathurst IncorporatedThe Junktion Repair and Repurpose Café
Develop the infrastructure to support the operations of the Junktion Cafe which recycles and resells used goods, thereby promoting circular economy practices.
Bathurst$17,090
Mullumbimby Sustainability Education and Enterprise Development IncorporatedNorthern Rivers Community-led Regenerative Food System Coalition- Regen Lab
Develop local food systems in the Northern Rivers region to address food security risks related to climate change, disaster risks, and food miles, while supporting the transition to regenerative farming practices.
Mullumbimby$20,000
NORTHERN TERRITORY#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Women’s Environmental Leadership Australia LimitedNorthern Australia Environmental Leadership Intensive
Build capacity in First Nations communities by informing and empowering local women with skills and networks that can contribute to community-led climate solution projects.
Noonamah$20,000
QUEENSLAND#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Australian Youth Climate Coalition LimitedSwitched on Schools Workshops
Boost an organisation's capacity to build a movement of young people to lead climate solutions by supporting workshops in school.
Cairns$20,000
Central Highlands Science Centre IncOutback Circular Economy: Transforming Plastic Waste into Educational and Economic Resources
Foster an active interest in circular economy practices by installing a plastic recycling machine at the Central Highland's Science Centre, helping educate regional children on climate change solutions.
Emerald$20,000
Darling Downs Environment Council IncEmployment of a Part-Time Energy Transition Community Organiser Over One Year
Educate and engage community members in southern inland regional Queensland on the transition to renewable energy to support informed decision making and awareness of opportunities.
Toowoomba$20,000
Gympie & District Landcare Group IncorporatedWorking for a Green Future in the Wide Bay/Burnett Region
Build organisational capacity to drive education in climate solutions via supporting trainees to gain Conservation and Ecosystem Management qualifications to support Gympie Landcare ecosystem regeneration and biodiversity preservation required in the face of climate change in the Wide Bay-Burnett region.
Gympie$17,080
Rainforest RescueThe FRRR & Rainforest Rescue: 'Seeds of Change: Daintree Rainforest Restoration and Empowerment through Education' Project
Restore ecosystem through revegetation and habitat restoration with educational community plantings involving local indigenous caretakers.
Daintree$20,000
Rockhampton Regional CouncilTAG Rockhampton Region: Building Climate Resilience Through Place-based Storytelling
Engage the local community to take action on sustainable and climate resilience priorities by simulating future scenarios using current local climate data.
Rockhampton$20,000
Sweltering Cities LtdUnderstanding Heatwave Disaster Impacts Through Scenario Workshops in Townsville
Mitigate risk of climate change by engaging with local organisations to provide information, tools and resources that support local adaptation.
Townsville$19,527
SOUTH AUSTRALIA#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Kangaroo Island Our Town Incorporated on behalf of Resilient Roots Grower Collective Growing the Roots of Resilience
Build community resilience through enabling local food production to increase food security and climate resilience for a Kangaroo Island community.
Gosse$19,707
The Food Embassy IncorporatedLocal Food Solutions For Climate Resilience
Promote education on local food systems and their connection to climate change, while activating the local food system to address food insecurity, reduce food waste, and build resilience.
Strathalbyn$18,688
TASMANIA#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Ten Days on the Island LimitedTime Rebel
Inspire community climate action through a performance and market event educating and promoting climate change awareness and behavioural change for adaptation, decarbonisation and circular economies.
Burnie$20,000
VICTORIA#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Bendigo Sustainability GroupBendigo Sustainability Festival 2025 – Many Hands
Engage and support young people to be active leaders in hosting the Bendigo Sustainability forum, developing their capacity to lead this climate solution work into the future.
Bendigo$19,900
Committee for Ballarat IncThe Ballarat Energy Network
Support a regional community organisation to conduct a feasibility study on the establishment of a community-owned energy network, to provide a sustainable energy source.
Ballarat$20,000
Goldfields Historical and Arts Society IncorporatedSolar Panels Project at the Dunolly Museum
Enable a community group to continue their emission reduction activities and community education by installing solar panels on the community facility.
Dunolly$3,500
Sandy Point Community Mens Shed IncSustainable, Clean, Green Community Transport
Sustain the operation of a community eBus service and facility by supporting an organisation's transition to a renewable energy future through the installation of solar panels and battery storage system.
Sandy Point$19,050
WESTERN AUSTRALIA#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Dandaragan Community Centre Management Committee IncorporatedSolar Panels with Back Up Batteries for the Dandaragan Community Centre
Support the clean energy transition of a community facility and the active promotion of solar and battery systems to their users.
Dandaragan$20,000
Ngaarda Media Aboriginal CorporationTV Documentary: "Climate Resilience: Regional Solutions"
Drive First Nations education and engagement on climate change and the transition to renewable energy sources in remote Western Australia by developing a documentary with relatable climate solution stories.
Roebourne$20,000
STREAM 2 ($20,001 - $75,000)#colspan##colspan##colspan#
NORTHERN TERRITORY#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Wilya Ajjul Janta Aboriginal CorporationTennant Creek Pilot 'Explain' Homes
Harness traditional ecological knowledge, cultural practices, and climate resilience insights from First Nations communities to create sustainable and culturally appropriate housing solutions.
Tennant Creek$75,000
QUEENSLAND#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Yuku Baja Muliku Landowner & Reserves LtdMonitoring Biocultural Indicators for a Changing Climate
Enable Indigenous Rangers to establish baseline biocultural indicators for fauna and flora to support climate adaptation decision making to care for land and sea country.
Cooktown$75,000
VICTORIA#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Mycelia Renewables LtdScaling and Replicating the Mycelia Energy Collective
Scale a collaborative initiative to enhance household and community preparedness to climate change and switch to renewable energy.
Venus Bay$60,000
Yackatoon Retirement Village IncProtecting Energy for our Seniors
Scale community resilience for local energy independence and ensuring housing support for the vulnerable and ageing, by equipping local facilities with solar and battery power supply.
Yackandandah$57,500

This story was submitted as part of FRRR’s 25th birthday celebrations.

“FRRR has been a catalyst for positive change, empowering communities to address local challenges and seize opportunities with tailored support and funding. This sort of funding simply does not exist in any other place. By investing in grassroots initiatives, FRRR has played a pivotal role in creating thriving regional communities that are equipped to respond to the wicked problem of climate change and embrace the future with more confidence. We deeply value FRRR’s vision and dedication, and we are proud to be part of its legacy. Congratulations on 25 years of empowering rural and regional Australia — we look forward to future partnerships.”

Darren McCubbin, CEO, Gippsland Climate Change Network
Group of people cluster together for a photo.

“FRRR funding helped us to develop and implement the Gippsland New Energy PowerPops, an initiative designed to engage and inform the community about renewable energy opportunities within the Gippsland Renewable Energy Zone. Using the New Energy Portal as a central resource, we created engaging materials, including VR headsets offering virtual wind farm tours and a database of skills and job opportunities. This project fosters a positive narrative around decarbonization and climate change, emphasizing opportunities for work and providing social acceptance, especially amongst younger people.

“The PowerPops initiative enabled us to bring information directly to local markets, schools, and community events, helping to dispel myths and build trust. Without this funding, opportunities to address misconceptions, showcase the benefits of offshore wind and involve the community in shaping the transition would have been limited, delaying progress and risking public opposition. This support has been critical to ensuring that the transition to offshore wind is seen as a positive and inclusive opportunity for Gippsland.”

GCCN’s vision for the future

“We hope to see a region powered by renewable energy, with strong local industries supported by a skilled workforce and innovative technologies. Gippsland will be a leader in environmental stewardship, balancing economic growth with the preservation of our natural landscapes and biodiversity. Our community will be connected and inclusive, with a strong social fabric that values collaboration and equity. By 2050, Gippsland will be a model for regional transformation, demonstrating how communities can successfully navigate the challenges of a transition from coal fired power to large scale renewables while creating lasting economic, social, and environmental benefits for future generations.”

Gippsland Climate Change Network Incorporated’s (GCCNI) application to FRRR’s Community Led Climate Solution’s (CLCS) grant program highlighted the multi-faceted transition required in response to the planned closure of coal fired electricity plants in the Latrobe Valley, on Gunaikurnai land in Victoria. Organisations such as GCCNI see a range of potential benefits from the closure of coal-fired power plants.

The Network was established in 2007 to effectively co-ordinate community, institutional and business networking to advance renewable energy. Their work also alleviates community apprehension about job losses, while working to ensure a thriving local economy. Their core mission is well-aligned to one of the main objectives of the Community Led Climate Solutions (CLCS) program – to provide support to communities navigating a just transition towards a socially, environmentally and economically vibrant and sustainable future – where no one is left behind.

With the support of a $20,000 CLCS grant, the GCCNI Gippsland New Energy ‘PowerPops’ project was able to activate one of their identified initiatives on their just transition journey. This initiative developed informative and engaging material that will enhance community awareness and understanding of ‘new energy’ opportunities. They are providing independent information and guidance on how the local community can engage and direct the outcome of these proposals. These resources included VR headsets offering virtual tours of renewable energy industries (e.g. wind farms), a listing of job opportunities and links to businesses.

By providing targeted information and resources, the project seeks to empower individuals to actively participate and benefit from the transition to renewable energy.

The second part of the project is disseminating resources at ‘pop up’ workshops hosted at community markets, shopping centres and/or school training expo sites. The locations were chosen to help reach individuals who, historically, have not been engaged in sustainability / new initiatives. By taking these workshops to locations where they’re most likely to be, particularly younger people, they hope to inform them.

Three people using virtual reality equipment in a room, with bright coloured posters on the wall.

A recent progress shared with FRRR reported that the VR displays are proving engaging, allowing for informative 350-degree experiences from local and overseas developers. They’ve also purchased a VR mini-game / training tool titled ‘Day in the Life of an Offshore Wind Tech’, and hosted 10 successful sessions across the Latrobe Valley and wider Gippsland region. Feedback and awareness sessions have been organised with groups including Venturer Scouts, Wellington Youth Council, Latrobe Valley Sustainability Group, Environment Victoria’s Action Network, Uplift Youth, and Gunaikurnai Aboriginal Land & Water Corporation. The organisation has had several offshore wind proponents keen to extend the program.

There is strong interest in future awareness events across the Gippsland region, both demonstrating the effectiveness of a locally-led and impactful climate solution project.

Up to $625,000 available thanks to growing number of supporters, including Elders Insurance

Funding is now available for remote, rural and regional communities seeking to embrace practices and solutions that reduce emissions and address the impacts of climate change for positive and sustainable environmental, social and economic outcomes.

Man standing in front of a desk talking to people who are sitting down. His shirt says "High Spirits, Level Seas - Surfers for Climate"
Surfers for Climate were awarded a grant in round 1 of CLCS to engage and educate tradespeople who surf in sustainable and circular building practices through local workshops in coastal NSW.

FRRR’s Community Led Climate Solutions program (CLCS) is offering grants to not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) via two streams, with a total funding pool of $625,000 available for initiatives that address climate change at a local level.

  • Stream 1 – Engage and Deliver: Grants up to $20,000 for local projects promoting or actioning practices and solutions that can reduce emissions and benefit their community; and
  • Stream 2 – Scaling: Grants from $20,001 to $75,000 for projects scaling locally-led initiatives, that alleviate socio-economic challenges and enable communities to thrive.

The Scaling stream is new this round and recognises that community organisations in remote, rural and regional Australia can find it challenging to access funds for local climate solutions initiatives, when their focus is often on alleviating disadvantage in their community. That’s why FRRR, with the support of its partners, is pleased to offer grants to strengthen and scale up existing projects.

Grants can be used by communities to educate locals and adopt clean energy practices; reduce emissions; implement low carbon power sources; embrace reuse and regenerative practices; support solutions that deliver sustainable agriculture and food systems; encourage biodiverse ecosystems; or activities designed to manage change and support the livelihoods of people reliant on industries in transition.

Sarah Matthee, Climate Solutions Portfolio Lead at FRRR, said the strong response from local groups to the first round of the program emphasised the active role that rural communities want to play in initiatives that capitalise on cleaner and more sustainable climate solutions that will benefit local people.

“Addressing the impacts of a changing climate requires a long-term outlook, backed by local solutions. We know that rural NFPs are eager to get on the front foot and ensure that no one is left behind. Local people can be best placed to lead just transitions and we are here to actively support rural communities in this process,” Ms Matthee explained.

“We are grateful to partner with a growing number of like-minded organisations including Boundless Earth, Hand Heart Pocket, Paul Ramsay Foundation and most recently Elders Insurance backed by the QBE Foundation. Like FRRR, these organisations are committed to funding community-led solutions that reduce emissions and address the impacts of climate change across remote, rural and regional Australia.

Dale Gleeson, General Manager at Elders Insurance, said that Elders Insurance, backed by QBE and the QBE Foundation, is proud to support the creation of strong, resilient, and inclusive communities.

“As one of Australia’s largest regional and rural insurance providers, we are delighted to be joining with FRRR on this critical role of supporting community-led climate solutions activities across remote, rural, and regional Australia,” Mr Gleeson stated.

The grants can fund community-driven projects that educate and engage local people on the transition to renewable energy, like the Gippsland Climate Change Network Inc’s ‘New Energy Power Pops’ project, which received a $20,000 grant in the first round of CLCS. The funding supported community education targeting young people at local markets and events in Traralgon, Victoria, including using virtual reality to inform people about the renewable energy transition industry in the Latrobe region and to promote employment and skills training opportunities.

The funding can also be used for projects that reduce emissions, like the Gympie and District Sustainability Alliance’s Building Energy Efficiency Project (BEEP) in Queensland. Community Action Inc. on behalf of the Alliance, was awarded a $20,000 grant to support solar installation and energy efficient infrastructure upgrades for their tenants. The purpose of the upgrades was to reduce emissions and provide equitable access to renewable energy cost benefits, with a further goal of promoting solar and battery systems to other housing providers.

An online Grantseeker Workshop, including a Q&A session on the Community Led Climate Solutions grant program, will be held on Tuesday, 13 August 2024, from 12:30 – 1:30 pm AEST. Register at https://events.humanitix.com/community-led-climate-solutions-round-2-grantseeker-webinar

Applications for the Community Led Climate Solutions are now open.

For the Scaling Grants ($20,001 – $75,000), an expression of interest (EOI) needs to be lodged by 5pm AEST, 22 August, with shortlisted applicants notified by 4 September. Applications for both streams close 5pm AEST, 26 September. To learn more and apply, visit: https://frrr.org.au/community-led-climate-solutions/.

Graphic demonstrating housing efficiency.

Community Action Inc (CAI) is a not-for-profit community organisation based in Gympie, QLD. It is a registered community housing provider with a mission to provide housing and support services in response to community needs. In partnership with Gympie and District Sustainability Alliance (GADSA), they received a $20,000 grant in Round 1 of the Community Led Climate Solutions (CLCS) program, funded by Hand Heart Pocket, for their Building Energy Efficiency Project (CAI BEEP). GADSA is a volunteer-led organisation committed to promoting sustainable communities through the use of technology to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.

This project stood out due to its strong alignment to several grant criteria including reducing emissions, supporting a just transition, and educating and advocating for increasing energy efficiency practices in social housing. FRRR was also impressed by the letters of support accompanying the application, demonstrating close connections within the community.

The overall objective of CAI BEEP is to increase energy efficiency in two buildings: a duplex brick veneer structure used to accommodate survivors of domestic violence; and an older elevated timber dwelling, occupied by CAI’s Youth Services Office. The project identified a multifaceted solution that could be implemented in stages involving installing solar panels, batteries, ceiling insulation and modern reverse cycle air conditioning units.

The CLCS grant will fund their first priority – the solar panels, which are anticipated to significantly reduce use of electricity from the grid and save an estimated 30 tonnes of C02 emissions through the annual production of 37MWh of renewable energy. In addition to emissions reduction, the project will reduce electricity costs and enable additional spending on other social projects by CAI Inc – enabling the tenants of the buildings to also benefit from the transition to renewables. The energy cost savings are estimated to be $4,000 annually across both parties.

CAI Inc is first and foremost a social housing and support program provider, so their partnership with GADSA has been critical to developing and managing the project delivery, contributing their time and knowledge.

Among the first steps was assessing the duplex under the Building Energy Rating Scheme (BERS), which guided the work program. GADSA sourced quotes for all tasks and identified the trades necessary for each job.

GADSA believes every individual, household and business can make changes to reduce their climate impacts. To help them promote the use of renewables and building efficiency solutions, such as ceiling insulation, to other social housing providers to increase their emissions reduction and social justice impact, GADSA ultimately plans to document this project.

This project demonstrates the power of collaboration and the impact of highly-skilled and energised volunteers, leading to a locally-led and impactful, climate solution.

Nearly $280,000 supports 16 initiatives across Australia

FRRR has awarded $278,693 in grants for projects that will help remote, rural and regional communities decarbonise, adapt to a changing climate, and mitigate the risks of global warming.

Ngardara Cooperative Ltd will use their Community Led Climate Solutions grant to establish their own solar microgrid.

The 16 community-driven projects are the first through FRRR’s Community Led Climate Solutions program, thanks to support from Boundless Earth and Hand Heart Pocket.

Grants include $14,957 to support regenerative farming practice for soil health and emissions reductions in Macleay, NSW; $20,000 to build energy efficiency for social housing in Gympie, QLD; $20,000 to provide information and links to employment pathways through pop-up events in Gippsland, VIC; and $20,000 to enable a local Indigenous community in NT to build their capacity in order to establish their own solar microgrid and reduce reliance on diesel-powered electricity.

Sarah Matthee, FRRR’s General Manager – Partnerships & Services, said that the applications reflected the diversity of community organisations in Australia, the variety of climate solutions underway across rural communities, and the breadth of opportunities available to enable local groups to take action.

“The requests we received reinforce the fact that these communities are being impacted socially, economically and environmentally by increasing temperatures and extreme weather events. These communities are aware and concerned about the impacts of a changing climate, and these projects demonstrate their ambition to engage locals in conversations about their region’s future, and lead their community in taking action to reduce emissions.

“People living in remote, rural and regional communities have the knowledge and ideas to implement solutions that can help to decarbonise, mitigate climate risks, and adapt in a changed climate environment. But they need a hand to take action.

“With the support of Boundless Earth and Hand Heart Pocket, we’ve been able to fund 16 place-based, community-led climate solutions projects, which we hope will influence and deliver change for social, environmental and economic community benefit across remote, rural and regional Australia,” Ms Matthee said.

Organisations awarded Community Led Climate Solutions grants, and their funded projects, include:

  • Original Power Ltd with Ngardara Cooperative Ltd – Borroloola, NT – Support a local, Indigenous community to establish their own solar microgrid, providing them with a sustainable energy source and reducing their reliance on diesel-powered electricity – $20,000
  • Surfers for Climate – Byron Bay, NSW – Engage and educate tradespeople who surf in sustainable and circular building practices through local workshops in coastal NSW – $20,000
  • Environmental Advocacy in Central Queensland Inc – Yeppoon, QLD – Drive education and engagement on climate change and the transition to renewable energy sources in Central Queensland by screening a documentary and presenting an experienced panel including local and national representation – $3,905
  • Cire Services Incorporated – Yarra Junction, VIC – Promote circularity practice with reuse and repurpose workshops that will reduce landfill and develop skills that enable sustainable practices – $20,000

FRRR and its donor partners are committed to funding community-led solutions that reduce emissions and address the impacts of climate change. Community-led solutions help drive positive and sustainable environmental, social and economic outcomes for remote, rural and regional Australia. FRRR welcomes further contributions to this collaborative pool of funds to grow the impact that can be generated across remote, rural and regional Australia. For more information, please visit https://frrr.org.au/giving/.

The full list of grant recipients and their projects are below.

OrganisationProjectLocationGrant
NEW SOUTH WALES#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Container of Dreams LtdContainer of Dreams Battery Storage and Charging Station
Build community capacity to reduce emissions through a communal solar battery charging station to decrease reliance on fossil fuel generators.
Drake$20,000
Macleay Landcare Network IncRegenerative Farming Soils in the Macleay Project
Build organisational capacity to engage and support landowners’ adoption of regenerative agriculture practice through workshops and volunteer training.
Kempsey$14,957
Surfers for ClimateThe Trade Up by Surfers for Climate
Engage and educate tradespeople who surf in sustainable and circular building practices through local workshops in coastal NSW.
Byron Bay$20,000
NORTHERN TERRITORY#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Original Power Ltd on behalf of Ngardara Cooperative LtdNgardara Community Solar Microgrid - Community Clean Energy and Climate Solutions Capacity Development
Support a local, Indigenous community to establish their own solar microgrid, providing them with a sustainable energy source and reducing their reliance on diesel-powered electricity.
Borroloola$20,000
QUEENSLAND#colspan##colspan##colspan#
350.Org LtdPower Up Masig
Develop the community engagement and prefeasibility model for a just transition to community-owned renewable energy supply in Torres Strait Island, Masig.
Masig Island$20,000
Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers LtdWater Wise Gardens - Revolutionising School Landscapes With Low Water Solutions
Build capability in schools vulnerable to climate change impacts on water to sustain gardens that can scaffold community food systems and enable this learning through school curriculum development and training.
Gympie$19,786
Community Action Inc on behalf of Gympie and District Sustainability AllianceCommunity Action Inc Building Energy Efficiency Project (CAI Beep)
Support clean energy transition for social housing and community organisation tenants to enable cost efficiency and promote solar and battery systems to other providers.
Gympie$20,000
Community Enterprise QueenslandArkai (Kubin) Community Garden
Activate locally led opportunities to advance Moa Island Community sustainability and resilience to climate change with a community garden cultivating produce.
Moa Island$18,525
Environmental Advocacy in Central Queensland IncClimate Changers Screening and Discussion Panel
Drive education and engagement on climate change and the transition to renewable energy sources in Central Queensland by screening a documentary and presenting an experienced panel including local and national representation.
Yeppoon$3,905
Mount Morgan Citizen's Club IncLeading the Way - Solar Power for the Soldiers' Rooms
Enhance community organisation operations with solar panels that are a catalyst for activating local education and engagement on climate solutions to reduce emissions and benefit community.
Mount Morgan$18,000
The Trustee for Abriculture Advancement TrustRoots of Sustainability: Cultivating Indigenous Leadership through Aquaponics and Permaculture
Develop capability in regenerative farming and aquaponics in Indigenous agriculture for food systems adapting to climate change.
Cairns$20,000
VICTORIA#colspan##colspan##colspan#
Cire Services IncCrafting Environmental and Social Benefits Through Cire FICE's Upcycling / Eco Fashion Workshops
Promote circularity practice with reuse and repurpose workshops that will reduce landfill and develop skills that enable sustainable practices.
Yarra Junction$20,000
Gippsland Climate Change Network IncGippsland New Energy 'PowerPops'
Educate and engage community members in the Latrobe Valley on the transition to renewable energy to support informed decision making and awareness of employment and skills training opportunities.
Traralgon$20,000
Kiewa Catchment Landcare Groups IncExploring Electric Vehicles with Kiewa Catchment Landcare and Kilowatt Cars
Educate the Kiewa Valley community on the benefits of electric vehicle (EV) transportation and encourage their transition to owning an EV, and actively participating in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Mount Beauty$7,460
Parklands Albury Wodonga LtdRestoring Bonegilla's Blue Carbon Sink Wetlands and Waterways
Restore ecosystem through seed propagation, revegetation and habitat restoration with educational community plantings advised by local Indigenous caretakers.
Bonegilla$16,060
The Gippsland Field Days on behalf of GreenLabsLardner Park Waste to Energy Pilot Project
Develop and pilot a biohub for food organics and garden organics diversion to produce bioenergy which can reduce emissions and develop circular economy practice in Gippsland.
Lardner$20,000

Grants up to $20,000 available for community-led initiatives

Remote, rural and regional not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) seeking to implement practices and solutions that reduce the impact of the changing climate can now apply for grants up to $20,000 through FRRR’s new Community Led Climate Solutions program (CLCS).

Group of people in two rows, with the ones in front crouched down. Behind them is a row of solar batteries.
Totally Renewable Yackandandah used an FRRR grant to help increase community capacity for preparedness for future disasters though installation of a generator at the local Fire Station. The project is part of an ongoing community project that aims to increase local energy independence and environmental sustainability.

The grants can fund community-driven projects that educate and engage local people to reduce emissions, adopt clean energy practices, low carbon power sources, and embrace reuse and regenerative practices. Funding can also support solutions that deliver sustainable agriculture and food systems, biodiverse ecosystems, or activities designed to maintain the livelihoods of people reliant on industries in transition.

Sarah Matthee, General Manager, Partnerships & Services at FRRR, said many rural communities are eager to capitalise on cleaner and more sustainable climate solutions but often have limited access to funding or simply don’t have the capacity to investigate options.

“By offering flexible funding that is focused on community-led climate solutions, we want to enable NFPs to develop local solutions that respond to and mitigate the impacts of a changing climate in a way that is meaningful and responsive to the needs their community.

“Thanks to generous seed funding from Boundless Earth and Hand Heart Pocket, there is more than $300,000 available across the coming rounds of the Community Led Climate Solutions program. Our donor partners are committed to funding community-led solutions that reduce emissions and address the impacts of climate change and we are pleased to be working with them to fund local initiatives that will help drive positive and sustainable environmental, social and economic outcomes for rural Australia. We welcome further contributions to this collaborative pool to grow the impact that can be generated across rural Australia.

“In terms of examples of what the program can fund, there are several initiatives that FRRR has previously supported, which we think could inspire other communities. For example, Augusta Margaret River Clean Community Energy Incorporated received funding to undertake a dairy waste energy study, ahead of planning for an aggregated biogas and renewable power grid-connected facility. We’ve also funded free informative workshops on energy efficiency and renewable energy in small Victorian towns.

“You may have had a climate solutions project in mind for a long time but haven’t known where to go for support. We encourage people to think outside the box, reflecting on what your community needs most, to address and mitigate the impacts of climate change,” Ms Matthee said.

Applications for the Community Led Climate Solutions program close Thursday, 30 November 2023 at 5 pm AEDT. More information can be found at frrr.org.au/community-led-climate-solutions/.