Moncrieff Media

Funding available to Gold Coast businesses to tackle climate change

13 November 2008

Gold Coast businesses can now apply for funding under the Green Building Fund programme, to reduce greenhouse emissions from the day-to-day running of their office buildings.

“Commercial office buildings are a major contributor to the nation’s emissions, so this is a good opportunity for locals to help tackle climate change,” local MP Steven Ciobo said.

“Grants ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 are available to owners of existing commercial buildings on the Coast for improvements that will reduce energy consumption and emissions.

“Whether it is a small or large commercial building, all Gold Coast owners of local office buildings can apply for funding to improve the environmental efficiency of their premises.

“Eligible projects may include an upgrade of office lighting and heating for a more energy efficient solution, as well as ventilation, air-conditioning systems and shades.

“Other eligible projects could also be the installation of monitoring equipment, building automation systems and control systems linked to improving the property’s energy efficiency.

“In most cases it will be a win-win situation, where Gold Coast businesses are saving on energy costs and the environment is better off as a result of changes to the premises.

“Grants of up to $200,000 are available on a dollar-for-dollar basis, so now is a good time for local business owners to get out there and make their office more environmentally friendly.”

The Green Building Fund is part of the Clean Business Australia initiative.

Eligible applicants will be assessed against merit criteria. For further information call the AusIndustry hotline on 13 28 46 or email the hotline at hotline@ausindustry.gov.au