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Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF)

Students at a tree planting day

Got a bold idea for Perth? We'll help you fund it.

Think global, act local and join a global movement of young people driving climate action.

The Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF) empowers young people aged 15 – 24 to lead meaningful climate action and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient Perth. This funding program is delivered by the City of Perth and supported by a global funding initiative from Bloomberg Philanthropies.

What to do next

  • Youth Climate Action Fund – how to apply

    The Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF) empowers young people to lead meaningful climate action and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient Perth.

    The program supports youth leadership, innovation, and practical solutions that benefit people and the planet.

    What: funds of between $1,500 and $7,000 (exc GST) to implement your idea

    Who: must be led by young people aged 15–24 and supported by a non-profit or charitable organisation responsible for the funds

    How: develop your idea, your plan, your team and your outcomes, and align with one or more of the City’s Climate Priorities – Mitigation and Resilience, Circularity, Inclusivity, and Governance.

    When: Applications open 24 August and close 2 October 2026. This grant is exhaustive funding and may close sooner where the budget is expended.

    YCAF Grant Guidelines 2026 – 2027

    YCAF SmartyGrants Application link will be available 24 August

  • The City's climate priorities

    Projects must align with one or more of the City’s climate priorities:

    Mitigation and resilience Actions to reduce emissions or to strengthen our community, natural and built environments to withstand impacts of climate change.
    Circularity Keeping materials and resources in use for as long as possible, minimising waste and protecting our environment, waterways and natural systems.
    Inclusivity Ensuring everyone has a voice in and benefits from climate action, including First Nations peoples and those facing cultural, economic, or other barriers.
    Governance Building the networks, trust and engagement needed to accelerate meaningful climate action and enable conditions for lasting behaviour change.

  • Project examples aligned with the City’s climate priorities

    Projects must align with one or more of the City’s Climate Priorities. Here are some examples, but don’t let this limit your ideas:

    Mitigation and resilience 
    • Workshops on reducing energy and emissions in your home, work, or place of study
    • Urban cooling initiatives for people or nature (trees, shade, cool surfaces)
    • Sustainable transport initiatives like walking, cycling and public transport
    • Nature-based solutions, such as community gardens, rain gardens, and biodiversity projects
    • Extreme weather and preparedness workshops 

    Circularity 
    • Recycling, resource recovery, or clean up campaigns
    • Repair and upcycling workshops
    • Clothing or item swap and reuse events
    • Composting and reducing food waste 

    Inclusivity 
    • Projects designed with or for young people who face extra barriers
    • Working with First Nations and diverse communities
    • Climate education in different languages or cultural styles
    • Programs that help young people with disability get involved 

    Governance 
    • Youth networks, committees, meetings and discussions
    • Public art / media and awareness campaigns
    • Capacity building for green career pathways
    • Youth climate action plans or climate hackathons
    • Digital tools or apps that support climate action or awareness 

    Looking for more inspiration? Check out what peer cities have been up to:

    City of Hobart (2025 recipients) - Youth Climate Action Fund – YouTube

  • Co-design information sessions

    If you have an idea and would like to learn more, or chat with our city staff and other potential applicants, sign up for one of our free Co-design Information Sessions.

    Register for sessions in August and September

  • Important dates

    Application timeline

    • Applications open: 24 August 2026
    • Applications close: 2 October 2026 (or sooner where funds exhausted)

    Grant timeline – successful applicants

    • Projects funded: Projects may start anytime after the funds are dispersed in ~November 2026
    • Award event: Celebrating successful applicants and projects in ~November - December 2026
  • Frequently asked questions

    How many times can I apply?

    Youth may apply for funding once per project.

    I do not live within the City of Perth - can I still apply?

    Yes. To be eligible, your project or event must either be located in the City of Perth or benefit the City in some way.

    Will my project or event require any approvals?

    Potentially, yes. Please reach out to the City’s YCAF Program Lead, who will support and connect you with an Activity Approvals or Development Approvals team member to advise on any approvals and/or fees that can be incorporated in your application.

    How will I know if my application is successful?

    The City's YCAF Program Lead will contact you within 6 weeks to advise you of the outcome of your application.

    What is Bloomberg Philanthropies?

    Bloomberg Philanthropies is a philanthropic organisation that funds the Youth Climate Action Fund, which is delivered by local government partners. The City of Perth is one of 300 participating cities around the world.

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