Deadline: 17-Apr-2026
The ACEREZ Community Grants Program is a three-year, multimillion-dollar initiative supporting community development in the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone. Grants fund projects in public amenities, education, sports, agriculture, health, and Indigenous community support, with awards ranging from $3,000 to $1 million. The program is open to not-for-profits, Aboriginal organisations, councils, and volunteer groups, with applications starting March 2026.
Overview
The ACEREZ Community Grants Program is a three-year initiative designed to deliver lasting social and economic benefits within the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ). Managed by ACEREZ, the network operator appointed by EnergyCo, the program ensures that communities benefit directly from renewable energy development while strengthening trust and stakeholder engagement.
Program Objectives
The initiative focuses on projects that enhance community well-being and resilience, including:
- Public amenities: Improving safety, emergency preparedness, and community facilities.
- Education: Supporting youth, lifelong learning, and intergenerational outcomes.
- Sports and recreation: Promoting grassroots participation, inclusion, and health.
- Agriculture: Enhancing land management and sustainable farming practices.
- Health and wellbeing: Strengthening physical and mental health initiatives.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander support: Delivering targeted programs to improve long-term outcomes.
Funding Structure
- Total duration: 2026–2028
- 2026 funding: Up to $4 million, distributed across two rounds
- Number of rounds: Five funding rounds over three years
- Grant categories:
- Small grants: $3,000 – $50,000
- Significant grants: $50,000 – $1,000,000
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants include:
- Incorporated not-for-profit community organisations
- Aboriginal community organisations and Local Aboriginal Land Councils
- Volunteer emergency service groups (e.g., SES, Rural Fire Service brigades)
- Local councils operating within the Central-West Orana REZ
Additional eligibility notes:
- Organisations must be located in or actively operate within the designated REZ area.
- Non-incorporated groups can participate via auspicing, partnering with eligible organisations to deliver projects.
How to Apply
- Identify your project focus: Align initiatives with program priorities, including community facilities, education, sports, agriculture, health, or Indigenous support.
- Determine grant type: Choose between a small grant ($3,000–$50,000) or a significant grant ($50,000–$1 million).
- Prepare application: Include project objectives, methodology, community impact, and budget.
- Submit application: Applications for Round 1 open March 2026 through the official ACEREZ portal.
- Partner if needed: Non-incorporated groups should secure auspicing with an eligible organisation.
- Await review and funding decision: Successful applicants will be notified with grant agreements and implementation guidance.
Tips and Best Practices
- Align your project with community needs and program objectives.
- Clearly demonstrate social, economic, and cultural impact, especially for Indigenous initiatives.
- Use data and evidence to show community engagement and expected outcomes.
- Collaborate through auspicing if your group is not incorporated.
- Prepare realistic budgets and timelines to improve funding chances.
FAQs
1. Who can apply for ACEREZ grants?
Eligible applicants include not-for-profits, Aboriginal organisations, councils, and volunteer emergency service groups within the Central-West Orana REZ.
2. What is auspicing?
Auspicing allows non-incorporated groups to partner with an eligible organisation to access grants and deliver projects.
3. When do applications open?
The first round opens in March 2026. Subsequent rounds will follow through 2028.
4. What types of projects are funded?
Projects in public amenities, education, sports, agriculture, health, and Indigenous community support are prioritized.
5. How much funding can I apply for?
Small grants range from $3,000 to $50,000, while significant grants range from $50,000 to $1 million.
6. Can multiple organisations collaborate on a project?
Yes, partnerships and collaborations are encouraged, including auspicing arrangements.
7. Is there support for project implementation?
Successful applicants will receive guidance and resources to ensure effective delivery and community impact.
Conclusion
The ACEREZ Community Grants Program provides a unique opportunity for community organisations, councils, and Indigenous groups to create lasting social and economic benefits in the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone. By funding initiatives across multiple priority areas, the program ensures communities are equipped to thrive, adapt, and benefit from the region’s renewable energy development.
For more information, visit ACEREZ.