Community Net Zero Training Program

We are empowering our community to lead the charge in achieving net zero for our city by 2040.

Starting in March 2025, Empowering Climate Champions is our first of its kind community net zero training program.

It is designed to equip community members with the tools and strategies to create local community-led projects that support the shift to renewable energy, electrification and energy efficiency in Newcastle.

Inspired by the electrification movement led by Saul Griffiths and Rewiring Australia, the free 6-week program offers practical training and support from expert facilitators representing leading climate change organisations across Australia.

Applications are open now. Don't miss the chance to turn your climate ideas into meaningful local action.

Rewiring Australia

Sponsored by Rewiring Australia

What You'll Gain

  • Practical tools to create real impact

    Learn the techniques and strategies you need to drive meaningful climate action in your community.

  • Communication & leadership skills

    Master effective communication plans, understand behaviour change, how to organise local groups, and to lead community projects with confidence.

  • Technical knowledge

    Expand your expertise in renewable energy, energy efficiency, electrification, and community energy solutions.

  • Support to design & implement your own project

    Whether you want to work solo or with others, you'll have the support of City of Newcastle and expert facilitators to create impactful climate action projects of any size.

  • The opportunity to turn your vision into reality

    Aligned to our next community sustainability grants, the program gives you the opportunity to secure funding to bring your project to life.

  • Access to a network of Climate Champions

    Connect with like-minded locals who share your passion for climate action. You'll have the chance to form relationships, collaborate, and work together to achieve your goals.

What You'll Learn

Understand Newcastle's climate challenges and develop actionable solutions. Learn from successful community-led energy projects to inspire your own initiative.

Explore energy equity and discover how to overcome obstacles to accessing affordable, reliable clean energy for everyone in our community.

Equip yourself with practical knowledge on reading energy bills, choosing efficient appliances, and Green Power so you can help neighbours reduce their energy bills and create healthier, more comfortable homes.

Learn what you need to know about solar, batteries, electric vehicles, virtual power plants and community energy.

Discover what motivates people to act. Learn the art of impactful storytelling and how to have effective climate conversations. Gain insights into marketing your project, as well as how to mobilise and lead community groups.

Across the 6-weeks you'll bring together all your insights to design a project to tackle a local climate challenge. This is the chance to celebrate your progress, reflect on the journey, and share your vision to bring us closer to a net zero Newcastle.

Download the course outline.

Who Is It For?

Who is the Empowering Climate Champions training program for?

Whether you've been engaged with climate or environmental issues for a long time, or just starting out, this program is for you. We're seeking applications from enthusiastic people who are committed to take action on climate change in Newcastle and are interested in delivering or contributing to a community project.

We value diversity and encourage applications from people from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander communities and culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Ready to become a Climate Champion? Apply now!