Collaboration across regional Local Governments to strengthen climate action and support local communities in adapting to climate change impacts will be the focus of a pilot program announced today. 

The Regional Climate Alliance Program provides funding for two regional climate alliances – with each able to access more than $400,000 over two years.

The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation has partnered with WALGA and the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries to deliver the grant funding. 

WALGA President Mayor Tracey Roberts welcomed the funding, saying it would support regional Local Governments to collaborate and establish climate alliances. 

“This funding could assist those smaller regional Local Governments who may face barriers in their climate change activities, such as lack of resources, expertise or competing priorities,” Mayor Roberts said. 

“By joining forces with neighbouring Local Governments, climate alliances can share knowledge, accelerate climate adaption and mitigation actions, and build resilience to climate risk.

“These alliances can successfully develop and implement trial projects that are currently beyond the reach of individual Local Governments, allow for innovation and could further achieve cost savings through economies of scale.” 

Examples of potential regional climate alliance projects include adding solar panels to Local Government facilities, delivering programs to encourage reduced household energy consumption and improve resilience across the community, or increasing tree canopies in town centres.

The Program is an action under the State Government’s Western Australian Climate Policy 2020, which supports regional Local Governments to drive action on climate change, energy and sustainability through regional partnerships.

The Minister for Environment Hon Amber-Jade Sanderson MLA said the State Government is excited to be launching this initiative.

“We want to see the development of strong and effective emissions reduction and climate change adaptation projects, designed and implemented by Local Government alliances,” she said. 

For grant program guidelines or to apply, please visit the WALGA website at walga.asn.au/regionalclimateallianceprogram or email environment@walga.asn.au

Applications close on Monday, 21 June 2021.