Media Release

Charities and not-for profit groups across rural, regional and remote NSW have long been at the heart of local communities, and once again, Essential Energy is asking for the community to help decide which local organisations need a bit of ‘empowering’.

Following a successful launch in 2019, the program is back to support the local groups that are part of the fabric of their communities, such as animal rescues, community centres, sporting clubs and school P&Cs who need some extra assistance to continue offering their vital services.

Local community groups across the Essential Energy network area are being encouraged to apply for funding of up to $2,500 through Essential Energy’s Community Choices program, which launches on Thursday 30 April. Nominations are open for four weeks. Following that the community gets to vote for their preferred cause, closing on Thursday 18 June.

“Essential Energy recognises that many communities are currently doing it tough. They’ve experienced droughts and fires and have probably been impacted by the health and economic crisis that is COVID-19. As an organisation, we’re doing what we can to support those grassroots organisations that support our communities,” said Chantelle Bramley, General Manager Strategy, Regulation and Corporate Affairs.

“Our employees live and work across regional, rural and remote NSW. We understand how important these organisations are for strong communities, and we’re proud to provide this funding and stand shoulder to shoulder with them.”

The program is open to any charity, registered not-for-profit or community group within Essential Energy’s network area and sees the public voting online for who they’d like to receive a share of the $175,000 state-wide funding pool.

The entire process, from nominating to voting, can be completed online, meaning people can participate while still complying with the current social distancing requirements.

2020 nominees must be able to receive payments by electronic funds transfer (EFT), and provide photos, commentary and stories about their organisations and the work they do.

Nominations for the Community Choices Program are open until 29 May. Visit essentialenergy.com.au/choices to learn more or make a nomination.

Download a pdf version of this media release

Media contact: Mitchell Cutting, Media & PR Specialist 
M: 0428 167 737