First Nations organisations and groups still have time to apply for Australian Government funding designed to help communities prepare for clean energy development opportunities.
Applications for the First Nations Clean Energy Advice Grants Round 1 remain open until 3 September 2026, unless available funding is exhausted earlier. Grants of between $5,000 and $80,000 are available to help communities build knowledge, obtain independent advice and strengthen their ability to participate in clean energy projects.
The program forms part of the implementation of the Government’s First Nations Clean Energy Strategy and is intended to help communities develop the skills, confidence and technical understanding needed to engage with renewable energy developers and make informed decisions.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants include First Nations organisations and groups with an Australian Business Number that meet the program requirements.
This includes incorporated organisations, Indigenous land management organisations registered with the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations, registered land councils and other entities managing land rights, native title or Traditional Owner agreements. Incorporated not for profit associations, cooperatives, incorporated trustees acting on behalf of trusts, and Australian partnerships are also eligible.
The program also allows applications through an auspicing arrangement where a First Nations group without an Australian Business Number partners with an eligible organisation that meets the program requirements.
Individuals, government bodies, non First Nations organisations, unincorporated associations and organisations that do not meet the eligibility requirements cannot apply.
Building capability before projects progress
Projects funded through the program must be completed by 31 March 2028 and be located in Australia.
Funding is intended to increase the capacity, capability and confidence of First Nations communities to lead, participate in or respond to clean energy development opportunities, and to engage with clean energy developers.
Eligible activities include obtaining specialist consulting and professional advice to support project negotiations, engaging representatives to negotiate with developers on behalf of communities, employing staff to support project activities, conducting meetings with Traditional Owners, Native Title holders and other First Nations groups, and delivering training, governance and business planning activities related to clean energy development.
Funding can also cover reasonable administrative and project costs where they directly support eligible activities.
Professional advice and technical support
Grant funding can be used to engage independent consultants and experts, employ staff and obtain specialist advice to support clean energy project development and negotiations.
Eligible expenditure includes technical, legal and financial advice, renewable resource mapping, community engagement and representation, training programs, administrative support, monitoring and reporting, and the development of community benefit agreements.
With applications remaining open until 3 September, the program provides First Nations organisations with an opportunity to secure independent expertise before engaging with clean energy developers, helping communities enter discussions with stronger technical, commercial and governance capability.
