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Youth Climate Action Fund

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Young people can apply for funding for a local project which will deliver climate solutions for Brisbane.

About the fund

Brisbane has officially been selected as one of just 300 cities worldwide to receive funding from Bloomberg Philanthropies under the Youth Climate Action Fund.

We’ve partnered with Bloomberg Philanthropies to deliver the fund. It empowers young people to step up, build skills and deliver research-backed climate solutions across Brisbane.

Grant application are now open until 26 August 2026.

information outline

About Bloomberg Philanthropies

A global charity working to improve the lives of millions of people. The charity funds initiatives that benefit the environment, the arts, education, government innovation and public health.

Who can apply

Youth Leads (at least 2) who:

  • are aged 15-24 years
  • live or study in the Brisbane Local Government Area (LGA).

Youth Leads must be auspiced by one of the following types of non-profit organisation:

  • an incorporated body
  • an Australian public company
  • a school or university
  • a charitable foundation
  • a social enterprise.

A letter from the non-profit organisation confirming the auspicing arrangement must be provided.

If you need help finding an organisation, email Council.

Funding amount

Grant amounts range from $1,500-$7,500.

Example project ideas eligible for funding
  • Climate education and awareness (e.g. workshops, experiences or creative projects)
  • Research and data collection (e.g. mapping environmental or community impacts)
  • Resilience and adaptation (e.g. responding to heatwaves or improving water quality)
  • Sustainable infrastructure and environmental protection (e.g. reforestation or greening community buildings)
  • Circular economy and waste reduction (e.g. re-use, repair, recycling, clean-ups or sustainable fashion)
  • Sustainable transport (e.g. projects that encourage walking, cycling and public transport).
What we will fund
  • Costs for organising community events, workshops or educational sessions, including venue, printing and basic catering.
  • Promotional materials to raise awareness of the project and increase engagement, as well as share project results through photography, videography, editorial support.
  • Reasonable fees for training and mentorship offered in workshops for young people.
  • Supplies for projects such as equipment, tools, art supplies technology.
  • Funds to enable young people to participate such as travel, food or gift cards.
  • Permit costs needed for the project.
  • Auspicing fees which should be no more than 15% of total grant.
  • Initiatives within the Brisbane LGA.

  • Religious or political organisations or activities.
  • Capital campaigns, endowments or endowed chairs.
  • Commercial activities and/or organisations.
  • Projects that are already funded.
  • Operational costs such as rent, utilities, insurance, incorporation fees.
  • Political campaigns or fundraising activities.
  • Scholarships or direct support for young people or families.
  • Speaker honorariums or speaker fees.
  • Events not related to youth climate initiatives.
  • Projects that have already commenced or occurred.
  • Initiatives that take place outside of the Brisbane LGA.
  • Incomplete applications.
  • Late submissions.

These allow individuals to access grants and funding by partnering with an established, incorporated organization (the 'auspicor').

The auspicor receives and manages the funds, assuming legal responsibility, while the 'auspicee' carries out the project.

Application process

Find out how to apply for the grant and what you need to include in your application.

The guidelines and conditions for the Youth Climate Action Fund will be made available soon.

Before applying, make sure you read and understand the grant guidelines.

Consider attending one of the following information sessions.

Session time Location Bookings
Tuesday 28 July, 1-2pm Community Meeting Room, Ground Floor, Brisbane Square Library, Brisbane City Register online
Thursday 30 July, 5.30-6.30pm Online via Microsoft Teams Register online

All applications are to be submitted via our online application system, SmartyGrants. This will allow you to save, develop and print applications before they are submitted.

Apply now

  • All applications will be assessed by an application panel.
  • Applicants will be notified if they were successful or not in late October 2026.

More information

For further information, or any questions, email Council.