There are numerous grant funding bodies both public and private that will supply monetary assistance for WSUD related projects. The availability of funding and the scope of the grants change from year to year. There are a number of groups that provide a synthesis of what is available from year to year.
National Environmental Grants Guide. The 2012 edition of the National Environmental Grants Guide - an annual directory of environmental grant and funding opportunities from around Australia is available for $39.95 (including postage and handling). The Guide lists funding opportunities available from the Australian and State Governments, corporate giving programs as well as the major Australian philanthropic funds and trusts.
Sydney Coastal Councils Group. The Sydney Coastal Councils Group compiles an annual funding guide. The Guide provides details of a variety of grant programs for Councils, communities, businesses and individuals. The 2012 Guide has over 100 funding opportunities available, as well as award opportunities to showcase outstanding projects.
Grantslink. The Grantslink website details funding available under a variety of grant programs for individuals, businesses and communities.
Environmental Trust. The NSW Environmental Trust is an independent statutory body established by the NSW government to support exceptional environmental projects that do not receive funds from the usual government sources. It provides grants to members of the community, local councils and State agencies to undertake environmental protection and restoration projects.
Sydney Water. Sydney Water often has rebate programs and provides resources and giveaways, refer to their website for details.
Stormwater Levy. In recognition of councils’ key role in stormwater management and the need for ongoing funding for stormwater management, the NSW Government amended the Local Government Act in October 2005 to allow councils the option of levying a stormwater management service charge. The Department of Local Government have developed several resources to assist councils in this regard.
Water Industry Competition Act & Council Revenue. The NSW Government’s Water Industry Competition Act 2006 (WICA) establishes a licensing regime for private sector (excluding public water utilities only) entrants to obtain a licence under the Act to construct, maintain or operate any water industry infrastructure; supply water; or provide sewerage services. Sydney Metropolitan council’s may wish to consider opportunities from the sale of recycled water to third parties as a potential revenue stream to supplement WSUD capital works and/or operation and maintenance budgets. The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of NSW (IPART) has provided resources in this regard.