City of Newcastle has reaffirmed its commitment to youth-led climate action by securing an additional $150,000 in funding to support local projects tackling climate change.
Applications open tomorrow for the next round of Youth Climate Action grants, offering young Novocastrians another opportunity to bring their innovative solutions to life.
Newcastle was one of just three Australian cities to receive an initial $75,000 grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Youth Climate Action Fund. The first round of funding saw 12 local projects receive grants, supporting initiatives such as a youth climate action summit, upcycling and recycling programs, and multimedia climate awareness campaigns.
With demand outstripping the initial allocation, City of Newcastle successfully applied for additional funding to extend the program.
The new round of grants will provide microgrants ranging from $1,500 to $7,500 for individuals aged 15 to 24, as well as organisations that represent them. City of Newcastle aims to further empower young people by placing their ideas and priorities at the forefront of the city’s climate strategy.
With a strong focus on community-driven initiatives, the funding is designed to help young people actively contribute to Newcastle’s goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2040.
Among the projects previously funded was the Blue Minds Youth Ocean Leadership program, which used its grant to host a free leadership summit for high school students at Dixon Park Surf Club.
Programs like these highlight the role young people can play in addressing climate anxiety and developing practical solutions for a sustainable future.
Applications for the Youth Climate Action Fund grants will open on 12 March and close on 13 April 2025. To support applicants, City of Newcastle will host information webinars on 19 March and 2 April.
