Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef and Minister for Science and Youth Affairs

The Honourable Meaghan Scanlon

They are the cornerstone of communities right across Queensland, and now close to 40 local groups throughout the state are set to share in more than $1.1 million to kick start smaller-scale, local projects aimed at addressing climate change while also supporting good jobs.

Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon today announced 39 community-based organisations have been provided up to $50,000 to help them take climate action by installing batteries, solar panels and other energy-efficient systems that will also help them reduce their power bills.

“The Palaszczuk Government knows communities want action on climate change, to seize the good job opportunities from renewable energy, and to take action in their own communities too,” Minister Scanlon said.

“It builds on the $10 billion that has been invested in Queensland renewables since 2015, and the state’s net zero emissions and 50 per cent renewable energy targets.

“Our community groups do such great work with the services they provide, and with this funding, they’ll be able to install renewable energy systems such as solar panels or small-scale wind generators, purchase energy efficient hot water systems or whitegoods, or replace lighting with energy efficient alternatives.”

Among those to receive funding is Communify Queensland Ltd who will receive $35,400 to replace light fixtures in The Newmarket community space and to purchase a new energy efficient freezer and heat pump to reduce their energy costs.

Pam Boavida, Coordinator of Community Spaces for Communify said The Newmarket is used by the community and sporting organisations to conduct programs for the local community.

“This grant will help us to continue transitioning the site to a net-zero future by improving indoor and outdoor lighting, air movement, hot water and refrigeration, while also reducing our bills meaning we can do more for less” Ms Boavida said.

“We hope to use The Newmarket as a model site in energy efficiency for the 18 other spaces Communify manages.”

It’s part of the Queensland Government’s broader Community Sustainability Action Grants, which has given more than 526 projects $21.2 million in funding since it started in 2016.

“The grant program provides vital funding to eligible community organisations and individuals for innovative solutions that aim to address climate change, protect our unique wildlife and conserve our natural and built environment,” Minister Scanlon said.

“These projects have protected our important heritage buildings, prevented tonnes of rubbish entering the environment, provided protection for our threatened species and will help us reach zero net emissions by 2050.”

For more information on how the Palaszczuk Government is investing in renewables and climate action head to: https://www.des.qld.gov.au/climateaction

For the full list of recipients head to: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/management/funding/community-sustainability

ENDS

Media contact: Francis Dela Cruz - 0420 592 078