$10 million grants program to support First Nations clean energy projects

Dept of Climate Change, Energy, Environment & Water

First Nations organisations can soon apply for a share of up to $10 million in grant funding to help advance their clean energy projects.

The First Nations Clean Energy Projects: Pilot Grants will support up to two eligible First Nations organisations.

It will help move projects with an expected capacity over 1 MW beyond feasibility and towards financial close.

Pilot Grants can help with:

  • project engineering design
  • construction plans and schedules
  • commercial and contract negotiations
  • community benefit planning.

The Pilot Grants aim to support projects with:

  • First Nations leadership, decision-making and participation
  • potential to generate long-term financial returns and community benefits for First Nations peoples.

The Pilot Grants are a key part of implementing Goal 3 of the First Nations Clean Energy Strategy.

The Pilot Grants have a different focus and eligibility requirements to the First Nations Clean Energy Advice Grants. Both support First Nations participation in clean energy projects.

Applications for the Pilot Grants open on 1 September 2026 and close on 28 September 2026.

The grant guidelines are available now to help you prepare.

Visit GrantConnect and Business.gov.au to:

  • check your eligibility
  • start preparing your application.

Contact the Business Grants Hub if you have any questions about the application process.

/Public Release. View in full here.