Regional partnerships funding
Accessing Regional Partnerships funding to undertake environment projects
Regional Partnerships is another program offering funding for environmental projects. Many councils are already accessing funds through this program for economic or social projects without realising that environmental projects are also eligible.
Environment projects are ideal for funding under this program!
What sorts of projects can be funded under Regional Partnerships?
Local governments are eligible to apply for Regional Partnerships funding for projects which are not considered to be core council business and which can not be funded under other Australian Government initiatives. Innovative ideas are encouraged and there is a huge range of projects which have already been funded.
The program encourages partnerships, therefore funding from local governments or community/private organisations is encouraged and in kind contributions are looked upon favourably. The program aims to assist the community to build capacity and skill development and provide opportunities for increasing participation in environmental activities. Projects need to be short term and not rely on ongoing funding.
The Area Consultative Committees (ACCs)
The Australian Government has set up 56 regions across Australia (these are not the same regions as those under NHT) and has established an Area Consultative Committee (ACC) in each one. The ACCs are made up of local community members, business people and local government and provide a link between the community and the Australian Government.
ACCs work with governments, businesses and the community to achieve regional economic growth and to facilitate solutions to local issues. They promote and deliver a range of Australian Government programs to regions in Australia and can assist you to find other project partners. The ACCs develop a three year strategic plan which sets out the priorities for the region and then seek out projects to meet the priority areas. Environment priorities feature heavily in strategic plans.
ACCs also play a major role in providing the Australian Government with advice, comments and recommendations, on projects. Ask them for help early on to reduce the assessment time!
How can councils apply for Regional Partnerships?
Download the Regional Partnerships guidelines. These provide more information on the program and how to apply for funding.
Contact your ACC and get a copy of their strategic plan. Talk through your project with the ACC who will assist you in putting together your application. They can also point you in the direction of other government programs if your idea does not fit the Regional Partnerships guidelines.
Regional Partnerships can be submitted at any time. There are no closing dates or rounds for lodging applications. There are no funding limits, however simpler application forms are available for projects under $25 000 an more detailed information is sought for projects over $250 000.
