A re-elected Turnbull Government will help community groups in Bonner to lower their power bills and play their part in reducing Australia’s emissions by providing $100,000 towards the cost of installing solar.

“The Solar Communities program will provide funding for groups across Australia to install rooftop solar PV, solar hot water and battery storage systems for community owned buildings,” Mr Vasta said.

Gateway Church in Carindale will receive $15,000 to assist with the cost of installing solar.

“Gateway Church provides a vital space for residents in Carindale and surrounding areas to practise their faith, while also offering valuable learning programs to young people,” Mr Vasta said.

The Coalition recognises the important role community and household solar plays in Australia’s transition to a low emissions economy with an increase in renewable energy.

“Community organisations such as churches, sporting clubs and scouts will also be able to apply for funding of up to $15,000,” Minister Hunt said.

“Around 350 community groups are expected to benefit from the expanded program, with $5 million available.”

“Unlike Labor, the Coalition is committed to tackling climate change without hiking up power bills for community groups, families and businesses and putting Australian jobs at risk,” Mr Vasta said.

“Bill Shorten’s carbon tax is a tax on electricity and will hurt community groups across Australia.”

By contrast, the Coalition is committed to supporting community groups with our expanded
Solar Communities program.

“Under the Turnbull Government, half a million households and businesses have already made the switch to solar,” Minister Hunt said.

Australia has the highest proportion of households with solar panels in the world – about 15 per cent.

The Australian Government’s Renewable Energy Target provides for an average rebate for a solar system of $3000, or about 30 per cent of the installation cost.

We have also established a $250 million Community Housing Program to help lower costs for low income families and residents through the construction of up to 1,000 new energy efficiency homes.

We have established a $1 billion Clean Energy Innovation Fund to support the latest technology which will transform our renewable energy use over the coming decade.

Only the Coalition is committed to tackling climate change without a job-destroying carbon tax.

A re-elected Turnbull Coalition Government will provide the Hope Foundation with $70,000 in funding to go towards the purchase of new equipment and supplies for their new social enterprise café at Mt Gravatt Lookout.

Making the announcement today at the café site, Liberal National Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta said he was pleased to be able to make the commitment to the charity.

“I’ve been proud to work with the Hope Foundation for many years and support its good work helping vulnerable women in our community,” Mr Vasta said.

“This café will not only help attract more visitors to Mt Gravatt Lookout, but also provide valuable work experience and skills for women in need.”

CEO and Founder of Hope Foundation, Bronwen Healy welcomed the funding announcement.

“This funding will help us complete the remodelling of our facility and purchase necessary equipment and supplies,” Mrs Healy said.

“I’d like to thank Ross for his support. I’d also like to thank the community for backing our fundraising efforts. We’ve had people approach us with substantial offers of assistance and equipment, service donations, or solutions resulting in savings.”

“Locals have been very supportive, with people stopping staff everywhere we go, asking how we're going and when we'll be opening the doors.”