Funding to support local priorities.
Local Grants Fund - NOW OPEN
As part of WRL’s commitment to early investment, the Local Grants Fund will invest $4 million in locally led projects that strengthen communities and deliver meaningful benefits during the project’s development phase.
The Local Grants Fund will support projects across the seven Local Government Areas along the proposed WRL route.
The fund is intentionally flexible and accessible, supporting a wide range of community groups including grassroots organisations and volunteer-led groups, to deliver projects shaped by local priorities.
What the Local Grants Fund supports
The Local Grants Fund supports projects that enhance local environments, strengthen community capacity and help prepare for a cleaner energy future.
Funding is available across five categories
Upgrades and improvements to public places to help build connected, resilient, healthy and inclusive communities.
For example: new playgrounds, resurfaced sports grounds, community gardens, parks, drinking fountains or picnic grounds in parks or creating places for people to gather.
Nature conservation activities that support biodiversity and enhance habitats and water resources.
For example: tree planting, creating wildlife habitat or improving local wetlands and bushland.
Support for community facilities that improve energy affordability, resilience and education.
For example: solar and battery systems, electric vehicle (EV) charging, energy resilience education programs or a community space adding backup power to support locals during an emergency.
Initiatives that bring people together, improve inclusion and support participation.
For example: participation, inclusion and accessibility programs, materials for creative or cultural programs, or simple essentials like marquees and BBQs for community events or to support fundraising activities.
Support to encourage and train volunteers and help purchase equipment to assist with service delivery.
For example: training, essential gear or equipment that helps volunteers respond to fires, floods, storms or droughts and the people, animals or infrastructure impacted by them.
Applying for a grant
Grants up to $50,000 are available for smaller-scale initiatives, while grants up to $300,000 are available for larger-scale legacy projects.
Applications for the Local Grants Fund open on 31 March 2026 and will close at 11.59pm on 30 June 2026.
Full eligibility criteria, objectives and funding requirements are outlined in the guidelines which should be read in full before applying. Applying for or receiving funding does not indicate support for the WRL project and does not affect anyone’s right to oppose it.
Grant writing workshops and application support
Free grant writing workshops delivered by an independent facilitator will be offered in the LGAs along the proposed route to support community groups and organisations interested in applying to the Local Grants Fund.
The workshops are designed for both novice grant writers and experienced practitioners seeking a refresher and will provide practical guidance on eligibility, funding priorities and how to develop strong, competitive applications. They will also provide practical tips and tools that can be applied to future projects and funding opportunities. The WRL team will be available after each workshop to discuss your ideas and answer questions.
You can also contact our Local Grants Fund team at grants@westernrenewableslink.com.au or call 1800 WRL WRL (975 975).
Independent Local Grants Review Panel
Grant applications will be assessed with the support of an Independent Local Grants Review Panel, made up of community representatives from across the project area. The Panel will provide local insight and make recommendations so that funding decisions reflect community priorities.
Expressions of interest to join the Review Panel are now open and will close at 11.59pm on 18 May 2026.
Sponsorship Program
The WRL Sponsorship Program provides $1 million over four years, with $250,000 available upfront, regardless of whether the WRL project proceeds. The remaining funding becomes available if the project is approved.
Sponsorships are available for events, activities and partnerships that build visibility and connection and where organisations are comfortable featuring the WRL brand and co-delivering agreed promotional opportunities.
Funding tiers include:
- $5,000 – Foundation package, such as WRL branding on your channels
- $20,000 – Momentum package, such as WRL branding on your channels and featured on materials or collateral within your event or program
- Legacy tier – $15,000 per year for three years (available if the project proceeds)
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are allocated.
Local Grants Fund or Sponsorship Program – which is right for my project?
Not sure whether a grant or sponsorship is right for you?
Community Brigades Support Initiative
The Community Brigades Support Initiative is offering grants of up to $8,000 to eligible CFA brigades within 10 kilometres of the proposed WRL route. The initiative is being rolled out during the project’s development phase and will continue regardless of whether the project is approved to proceed to construction.
Developed to comply with CFA's grants and fundraising policies, the initiative supports equipment and amenity upgrades that strengthen volunteer efforts and enhance emergency response capabilities. Applying for, or receiving, a grant does not indicate support or endorsement of the WRL by the CFA, individual brigades or volunteers.
Applications close at 11.59pm on 30 June 2026.
Spread the word in your community
If you know a community group or local initiative that could benefit from funding, feel free to share information about the Local Grants Fund.
Our Toolkit includes ready to use social media tiles, posters and the Local Grants Fund flyer to support community benefits. Please reach out to us at grants@westernrenewableslink.com.au or call 1800 WRL WRL (975 975) to obtain these.
Stay informed
All updates about the Local Grants Fund, including opportunities to get involved and apply for funding, will be shared through our project eUpdates.
Sign up here to stay informed and be part of shaping your community’s future.
If you have any questions, please contact our Local Grants team at grants@westernrenewableslink.com.au or call 1800 WRL WRL (975 975).
