Snowy Hydro has reached a significant achievement by donating over $1 million to local organizations in the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys, and Towong regions through its Community Grants Program. This initiative underscores the company’s commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates. As part of this milestone, the latest round of funding is now open for applications.
Since its inception in 2022, the Community Grants Program has provided support to a variety of local organizations and grassroots initiatives, making a tangible difference to rural communities. Eligible community groups and not-for-profit organizations across the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys, and Towong regions are invited to apply for funding. This round offers more than $200,000 in grants, with individual applications able to receive up to $10,000.
Community Impact and Future Opportunities
Sarah Norris, Head of Social Impact and Community at Snowy Hydro, expressed pride in reaching the million-dollar milestone, highlighting the positive impact of local organizations. “This million-dollar milestone represents hundreds of important local projects, from upgrades to local facilities to new equipment for local hospitals. We’re incredibly proud of the organizations we support,” Norris stated. She encouraged eligible groups to submit their innovative ideas for consideration.
Earlier this year, the program received over 100 applications in its first round of funding for 2025. Successful projects included improvements to accessible living infrastructure in Cooma, support for the Tumbarumba Spring Flower Festival, and security upgrades at the Corryong Craft Shop.
Among the beneficiaries of this funding is the local wildlife rescue group, LAOKO, which purchased two large animal enclosures. These enclosures will provide a safe haven for injured and orphaned wildlife to be rehabilitated. Robyn George, Treasurer of LAOKO, emphasized the importance of such funding for their volunteer-run organization. “We don’t receive recurrent government funding, so this kind of support is invaluable. Thanks to this funding from Snowy, our trained volunteers can give native wildlife the best possible chance of recovery before returning them to their natural environment,” George said.
Eligibility and Application Process
To qualify for funding, community groups must be not-for-profit or charity organizations with an Australian Business Number. The proposed project, event, or initiative must directly involve or support communities located within the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys, or Towong local government areas.
As the application window opens, Snowy Hydro continues to demonstrate its commitment to enhancing the quality of life in rural regions, fostering community spirit and development through its generous support initiatives.
