Community groups across the region will be supported by a new Morrison McCormack Government program to lower energy costs and support local jobs.  

The Powering Communities Program will fund up to 12 projects worth a total of $67,700 in each electorate, including Dawson. Grants of between $5,000 and $12,000 will be available to eligible community organisations, with no co-contribution required. 

The grant will assist groups to lower their energy bills by installing solar panels or a battery, upgrading air conditioners, hot water systems or a refrigerator with more efficient models, replacing lighting with LEDs or conducting an energy audit. 

When not-for-profit groups invest in their community, it helps local economies to grow and supports local jobs.  

Energy bills are often one of the biggest overheads for not-for-profit organisations.

Whether it’s a sports club, a senior citizens club or a charity group, by helping to reduce power bills, the grants will ease the financial pressure these organisations face so they can better focus on meeting the needs of our local community.

We recognise the great work that many community groups do and know that many have done it tough during COVID19. The program will help them to do what they do best.

Local community groups can get Expression of Interest forms from my office, and they need to be submitted by Friday, June 25.

Local Federal Members of Parliament will play a key role in identifying the projects to be supported in their electorate, with the assistance of a committee that represents the local community. 

Further information on the program, including eligibility guidelines, is available at business.gov.au or by telephone on 13 28 46.