The Andrews Labor Government is supporting Traditional Owners to increase their clean energy capability and leadership as part of the inaugural First Peoples Adoption of Renewable Energy (FPARE) Program.

Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio announced $960,000 in clean energy grants that will be made available to Traditional Owner Corporations (TOCs) to deliver renewable energy projects that will benefit their community.

This could include installing solar panels, developing feasibility studies and undertaking businesses cases for future community-owned renewable energy generation

The FPARE Program is building renewable energy capacity and capability for TOCs and Aboriginal communities through education and awareness, information-sharing programs, and support for the development of projects, plans that builds renewable energy capacity.

Projects could develop TOC specific energy initiatives, create resources to share energy knowledge and assist in accessing government programs as well as build on projects funded under the previous Traditional Owner Renewable Energy Program (TOREP).

The Government acknowledges the right to self-determination and recognises that only when Aboriginal people are central to the decision-making processes that affect their lives, will sustained and long-term changes in wellbeing and the health of Country be achieved.

Applications for grants up to $50,000 will be available to both Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) and non-formally recognised TOCs.

Victoria is leading the nation with renewable energy targets and initiatives – bringing back the public-owned State Electricity Commission (SEC) and working towards 95 per cent renewable energy by 2035 and net zero by 2045.

Submissions close 28 April, to apply or for more information visit: energy.vic.gov.au/grants/first-peoples-adoption-of-renewable-energy-program.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio

“We’re working with Traditional Owners to enable them to shape how clean energy is developed in their communities, protecting country while delivering clean power, jobs and economic opportunities.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Gabrielle Williams

“We are proud to be helping Traditional Owners harness new renewable energy opportunities and share in the jobs and cost saving benefits.”