Remote, rural and regional communities are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of increasingly frequent and severe natural disasters and climate extremes, and the transitions that lie ahead – economic, social and environmental. These impacts threaten to exacerbate existing social and economic inequalities and negatively affect the liveability – and therefore the sustainability – of these communities. 

However, it doesn’t have to be this way. The transition to a clean future can create greater resilience and agency for communities. There is a significant need for support – both big and small – that enables communities to activate climate solutions that responds to their context, are led by locals, and supports their ability to envision a climate-smart future.

In 2023, with the support of two founding donors, and leveraging AEGN’s Climate Lens, the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) established a collaboratively funded Community Led Climate Solutions grant program to support remote, rural and regional communities to act locally to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help address the impacts of climate change for positive and sustainable environmental, social and economic outcomes.

After receiving 50 applications from across Australia, we’ve just announced the first round of grant recipients. The applications demonstrated the breadth of conversations and grassroots activities that are happening across rural Australia, with interesting trends to inform future giving. 

Come along to this funder-focused session to hear more about what these applications tell us about how remote, rural and regional communities are approaching climate awareness, adaptation and mitigation at a grassroots level; the breadth of conversations and organisations seeking support; and the insights we are drawing from those applications. 

Hear from FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton, AEGN, and grantees directly about their work to activate climate solutions in their communities. 

Consider how you might incorporate a climate lens or climate focus in your giving, and the impact you could support across rural Australia.

A light lunch will be available.