NSW Skills for Net Zero

About this grant

The initiative provides eligible businesses with access to a high-quality pool of tertiary student interns who are ready to contribute to the workplace’s decarbonisation project goals.

Eligibility requirements

All of the following criteria must be met:

• Nsw-based businesses with net zero-focused projects.
• Businesses must:
• Be operating in nsw and hold an active australian business number (abn)
• Have been operating for at least 12 months, and have a minimum of 5 employees
• Provide a supervisor with relevant skills to support and mentor the student
• Have executive support to host a placement, have all appropriate insurances, and provide a safe and appropriate work environment for a student in line with industry and work and safety standards
• Formally employ the student for a minimum of 200 hours to work on a relevant, nsw-based, decarbonisation-focused project
• Pay the student a minimum of $25 per hour, plus any superannuation entitlements.
• Export support measures for nsw small to medium enterprises in certain industry sectors
• Financial help for tasmanian businesses to move goods by sea
• Free mentoring support for first nations tourism businesses

What the funding covers

• Access to a high-quality pool of tertiary student interns.

How to apply

1. 1Confirm readiness: Ensure you meet criteria (e.g., ABN, turnover limits, GST registration), align project objectives with grant goals, and estimate time for evidence gathering and writing.
2. 2Gather evidence: Collect documents like financials, business plans, market research, project budgets, resumes, risk analysis, and support letters to prove capability and impact.
3. 3Register/log in: Obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN) if needed, sign into the relevant portal (e.g., Business Grants Hub portal), and note any prerequisites like advisory service reports.
4. 4Prepare and write application: Address all selection criteria clearly (project details, government alignment, costs, outcomes, benefits); keep concise, factual, and compelling; validate for completeness.
5. 5Review, approve, and submit: Proofread, get stakeholder sign-off, submit online via the portal before deadline (no late entries); expect eligibility check, merit assessment, and outcome notification.
6. 6Visit https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/nsw-skills-for-net-zero for application details

Application tips