City of Hobart launches Youth Climate Action Fund

Published on 22 May 2024

The City of Hobart is one of three Australian cities to receive funding from Bloomberg Philanthropies as part of an international program to invest in the next generation of climate leaders.

This innovative fund will provide grants to empower young people to implement urgent climate solutions and create a climate-ready Hobart. Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said youth involvement in climate action was vital.

“Climate change is the biggest challenge facing every corner of the world and is of particular interest for young people, because what we do today will have a big impact on their futures,” Cr Reynolds said.

“Many young people are passionate about climate change and what worries them most is when they see the lack of action being taken by people in positions of power.

“They’re keen to help make the case for change and to help implement local climate solutions.

“Taking practical steps locally can make a big difference for young people concerned about this issue.”

A recent survey by City of Hobart shows that many young people, from primary school students to youth, care deeply about climate change and want the City of Hobart to be a leader when it comes to addressing climate change.

The survey showed 79 per cent of young respondents think we all have a part to play in solving climate change.

“The City of Hobart is thrilled to receive this funding to be able to support young people on campaign initiatives and local solutions projects in our city,” Cr Reynolds said.

The fund will support activities in three priority areas: zero emissions transport and communities, building climate resilience, and mobilising community action.

The Youth Climate Action Fund provides grants ranging from $1500 to $7500.

Applications open on Wednesday, 22 May 2024, and close at 3 pm on Wednesday, 19 June 2024.

The funded activities should be implemented between 1 August and 31 December 2024.

Eligible applicants include youth-led organisations with individuals aged 15 to 24 in leadership positions, youth-serving organisations, and groups of young people aged 15 to 24 years old supported or sponsored by an incorporated organisation.

Example Projects The initiative welcomes diverse ideas that align with the City of Hobart’s priority areas, such as:

• Zero Emissions Transport and Communities: Activities encouraging active travel, e-transport, and public transport use.
• Building Climate Resilience: Projects focused on preparing for extreme weather, increasing community knowledge and wellbeing, and restoring nature.
• Mobilising Community Action: Youth-led campaigns, educational programs, workshops, and creative projects to engage the wider community in climate action.

To kick off this initiative, we invite passionate young individuals to join us for a casual, but informative session on the Youth Climate Action Fund:

• Date and Time: 6-7:30 pm, Tuesday 4 June 2024.
• Location: Elizabeth Street Conference Room, Hobart Town Hall.
• Registration: Click here to register.

During this session, attendees will hear from Cr Reynolds and city officers about the City of Hobart’s commitment to climate action.

They will also receive detailed information on how to apply for funding and personalized advice from city officers to help their projects succeed.

For more information on eligibility, application process, and assessment criteria, please refer to the Youth Climate Action Fund guidelines.

For further assistance, check out our resource for grant applicants, set up a meeting with us, or get in touch via grants@hobartcity.com.au.