We are delivering a long-term Benefit Sharing Program over the life of the Little River BESS Project, to support local communities and First Nations groups.
We’re working with neighbours, the Community Reference Group and First Nations representatives so that the Project supports the region over the long term.
Community Benefit Fund
The existing $1.5 million Community Benefit Fund will continue, with no change to the way it is managed or distributed. The Fund will remain guided by the Community Reference Group (CRG), and we will continue to work closely with the CRG to identify local priorities and support initiatives that provide meaningful benefits to the community.
Community groups will be able to apply for funding from the start of construction, with annual funding rounds throughout the construction and operational phases of the Project. We will continue to work with the CRG to share information about the Fund, including funding priorities, eligibility criteria and how to apply.
Flexible Support Fund
In addition to the Community Benefit Fund, we are introducing a new $1.5 million Flexible Support Fund. This Fund will back initiatives, partnerships and projects that deliver lasting benefits for the local community and region, and that go beyond the Project itself.
We will work with the community and relevant First Nations groups to shape the Fund around local priorities and aspirations. We will keep the community updated as this work progresses.
Together, the existing Community Benefit Fund and the new Flexible Support Fund provide a significant increase in funding available to support community initiatives.
In total, the Little River BESS project will contribute $4.2 million in community benefits, including new funding opportunities to partner with relevant First Nations groups on how benefits are shared.
Community Reference Group (CRG)
Following a public expression of interest process, we formed a Community Reference Group (CRG) in mid-2025 to help shape and implement the Community Benefit Fund. We are grateful to our seven CRG members, who represent a diverse cross-section of the community, including environmental and conservation groups, historical societies, community facilities, emergency services, education providers, and local businesses. Their expertise and enthusiasm ensure the Fund is in capable hands.
The CRG held its first meeting in October 2025, focusing on feedback for the draft Community Benefit Fund Guidelines. Their insights were valuable, and ACEnergy is now revising the Guidelines based on this input.
Resources available below include:
- Minutes from CRG Meeting #1 (9 October 2025)
- CRG Terms of Reference
- CRG Expression of Interest
If you’re interested in joining the CRG or have any questions, please contact us at info@littleriverbess.com.au. We’d love to hear from you.
Get in touch
If you have questions about the Project or the Benefit Sharing Program, you can get in touch with the project team at info@littleriverbess.com.au.
