Community organisations across the state can cut energy costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce waste thanks to two Andrews Labor Government programs.
Organisations can apply for up to $50,000 through the Community Climate Change and Energy Action program to upgrade heating and cooling, install shading, insulation, double glazing, lighting and renewable energy installations like roof-top solar panels and battery storage.
The program helps organisations reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency, making community facilities cheaper to run and more comfortable year-round, an official press release said.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio today announced the 170 community organisations who will share $1.3 million in funding to deliver projects that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1,695 tonnes annually, while slashing energy bills.
Successful recipients include Richmond Community Garden Group who will use a grant of $9000 to install a new solar system to offset electricity consumption, and Your Community Health in Darebin, where a grant of $16,300 will help the organisation install 79 solar panels.
A further $1.8 million in grants is available in the next round of funding which opens this week.
Meanwhile, social enterprises, not-for-profits, and community groups can develop smarter ways to use resources with grants of up to $250,000 available through the Recycling Victoria Communities Fund.
The program supports local projects like repair cafes, community worm farms and compost hubs, helping groups to repurpose, re-use and recycle everyday items. More than 800 tonnes of waste will be diverted from landfill thanks to projects already funded through the program.
For more information and to apply visit www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/
Follow The Indian Sun on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
