Grants & Funding Applications
With the State and Federal Government giving away millions of dollars in funding allocations for sustainability and water savings, stormwater or rainwater harvesting and recycling projects, it has become quite an art to know where, when and how to apply for relevant funds. Please ask us about our many successful applications.
Whilst water remains in short supply there are a huge number of funds available to support the implementation of projects that help save water. Before embarking on any project, it helps to check against the various programs on which ones may provide the best support. Conversely, just seeing the programs available, can often trigger the development of whole new water conservation initiatives to take advantage of funding opportunities offered.
Despite the fact that water is still relatively cheap in Australia, these funds help make a large number of water savings initiatives commercially viable. It is one avenue of how the Government helps stimulate the economy by supporting the transition to a more sustainable water management.
How to Choose the Best Fund?
Naturally, the first criterion is eligibility. It is worthwhile to carefully read the criteria. Next the size needs to be considered. Some are for very large projects only (by stipulating e.g. a minimum project size of >$4m), some are for very small projects, some are rebated programs. Then it must be checked if the fund focuses on supporting innovation or places greater emphasis on the funding amount required to achieve the promised water savings ($/kL).
Funding will be in a number of different ways too. Some provide payment down to a minimum self funded payback of 2.5 to 3 years (with a cap in terms of the maximum funding contribution), some provide 50:50 funding. Cash flow planning is important too. Deadlines, may be in fixed rounds or rolling.
What the funds can and cannot do
All can help get a project over the line. Typically, none will pay for all the cost though, meaning each organisation will still have to find funds of their own. Most funds will also not pay limitless amounts. Often not much more than $10/kL saved will be paid. Some can help with ideas, concepts, and all are built on creating publicity and achieving recognition for the water conservation measures implemented and the organisations involved.
