First Peoples’ Adoption of Renewable Energy Program

The Program aims to support as many TOCs as possible. It will work towards delivering the following objectives:

• recognise First Peoples' values and goals for taking part in the transition to renewable energy
• support First Peoples' access to renewable energy for economic development
• build capacity to increase Traditional Owners' and First Peoples' participation
• empower Traditional Owners to self-determine how they would like to take part in the energy transition.

How does the grant work?

The funding builds renewable energy capacity and capability for Traditional Owners and Aboriginal communities through:

• education and awareness raising
• information-sharing programs
• campaigns and events
• and aid the development of projects, plans and documentation supporting capacity building.

Key dates

Applications open Thursday 9 March 2023

Applications close Friday 28 April 2023

Who can apply?

To be eligible, you must:

• be a Victorian Traditional Owner Corporation. Registered Aboriginal Parties and recognised Traditional Owner Groups can apply for funding.
• be located/based in Victoria
• have an Australian Business Number (ABN).

I think I am eligible; what do I do?

Read the application Guidelines and the information about the Program.

Who is ineligible?

The following are not eligible to apply for funding:

• non-Aboriginal groups or organisations
• Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations
• private individuals
• local government
• state government departments or agencies
• commonwealth government departments or agencies.

What are the funding details?

Proposed projects must meet the project eligibility requirements.

Aboriginal Energy may fund projects or resources which:

• build on and progress projects funded under the Traditional Owner Renewable Energy Program
• develop TOC-specific document(s) on energy-related engagement, interests, aspirations, or benefit-sharing models
• energy-related resources, for example, sharing knowledge such as First Peoples Energy Officer assisting members in accessing government programs and rebates.
• progressing Country Plan or Self-Determination Plan energy objectives
• Cultural events and gatherings which support capacity for knowledge sharing on renewable energy and raising awareness of the adoption benefits
• activities which progress Aboriginal cultural values and participation and recommendations and/or economic purposes of renewable energy.

What will not be funded?

The Program will not fund the following:

• the purchase of land
• routine or ongoing maintenance activities
• activities that have already started
• current operating costs, for example, rent and utility costs
• activities establishing expectations of ongoing funding
• where duplicates services are in operation or planned for in a targeted community
• projects which aren't completed by June 2024
• activities located outside the State of Victoria.

What are the funding conditions?

Up to $960,000 (cumulative total) is available to:

• develop and implement projects
• research and resources

between June 2023 and June 2024.

Preference is for applications for grants up to $50,000. Depending on the program's update, higher amounts may be considered. This would only be for projects that illustrate significant and sustainable benefits.

Apply now

Applications must be completed through the Grants Online portal.

Start an application

Resume a draft application

Need help

For technical help with Grants Online, contact the grants online team.

What is the notification process?

• Successful and unsuccessful applicants will be notified in writing.
• All decisions are final and are not subject to further review.
• Unsuccessful applicants can ask for feedback on their applications.

Application documents

To apply, you must provide the following supporting documents

Page last updated: 29/03/23