Environmental partnerships on offer

Bass Coast Shire Council has announced the launch of a new Environmental Partnerships Program and is now seeking Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from community organisations with expertise and dedication to deliver innovative environmental programs and projects.

This program offers groups an opportunity to partner with Council on impactful project partnerships in 2025 and the future.

Through the program, Council said it will support projects established via a partnership agreement with each community organisation clearly demonstrating their contribution to delivering the key environmental priorities identified in Council’s Climate Change Action Plan.

The total funding pool is $100,000 per year, and partnership agreements will last from one to three years, with an annual review and a maximum project amount of $30,000 for groups per year.

Mayor Cr Clare Le Serve highlighted the importance of these partnerships.

“This program is a fantastic opportunity for community organisations to partner with us to create a sustainable and resilient future for Bass Coast. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in our fight against climate change.

“Our goal is to collaborate with organisations that can assist Council’s progress towards sustainability and climate resilience across our community,” Cr Le Serve said.

These initiatives will need to align with key actions outlined in Council’s Climate Change Action Plan and Council stated it is particularly interested in programs that can demonstrate measurable contributions to actions such as:

• Promote the adoption of energy efficiency measures, solar and battery storage, electric vehicles, and all-electric homes.
• Encourage productive gardening, habitat creation, and waste reduction through circular economy principles.
• Develop resources and campaigns to enhance climate resilience.
• Facilitate financial assistance for sustainability upgrades in homes and businesses.
• Increase native vegetation cover across the Shire.

How to Apply

EOIs are open until September 15 with successful expressions invited to submit a formal application later in the year.

Organisations who would like more information on the environmental partnerships program can attend an information session in person or online on August 13 (2pm and 5pm). Bbookings are available through the Trybooking link located on The CAP.

To submit your Expression of Interest or for more information, please visit The CAP or contact Council’s Acting Climate Emergency Project Officer, Talia Newton, at 1300 BCOAST (226 278) or (03) 5671 2211 or email sustainability@basscoast.vic.gov.au.