Community and Employment Benefit Program

Key details

Established under the NSW Government’s Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, the Community and Employment Benefit Program ensures that electricity infrastructure investment delivers long-term, legacy benefits for local communities.

Through the program, regional communities hosting renewable energy and electricity infrastructure will share the benefits of this once-in-a-generation opportunity. It will bring new investment and funding for local projects, as well as programs to support small business development, training and local employment opportunities.

The program will continue for many years after we've delivered our renewable energy zones (REZs). It will invest hundreds of millions of dollars into regional communities across NSW to ensure they receive lasting, transformational benefits.

Who the program is for

The program will provide funding to eligible applicants, including:

local community groups and organisations
First Nations communities
local councils.

Benefits may also be delivered through partnerships with other government agencies.

What the program supports

The program supports projects designed to deliver:

community outcomes and initiatives
long-term economic and social benefits
legacy infrastructure
local jobs and workforce development
training, skills and career pathways.

Leadville Community Hall - Community and Employment Benefits Program grant recipient

Why we have a Community and Employment Benefit Program

Renewable energy infrastructure brings real change for people living and working in REZs across NSW.

The program will contribute to the long-term prosperity of regions hosting new electricity infrastructure by funding legacy community projects, education and training programs and First Nations projects.

Read the Community and Employment Benefit Program Policy Paper to learn more about the program.

Coolah Swimming Club - Community and Employment Benefit Program grant recipient

Community consulation helps shape the program

We consult with communities and councils to shape the program around local needs and priorities. This helps us design funding approaches that suit each region.

The consultation process may include workshops, information sessions, webinars, drop-in sessions and surveys.

Existing groups, such as community and regional reference groups, First Nations working groups and REZ steering committees, can also help test ideas and refine our approach.

Discover opportunities through the Community and Employment Benefit Program

Old Gulgong Fire Station - Community and Employment Benefit Program recipient

Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone

The program was delivered first to communities within the Central-West Orana REZ. Program funding is supporting many community and council projects, public infrastructure and initiatives for First Nations communities.