18 | Mid-Western Living | AUTUMN 2026 At the heart of ACEREZ’s work in the region is building the transmission network in a way that respects local values, supports regional jobs and leaves a positive legacy for years to come. This year, ACEREZ will build on this commitment with the launch of a multi-million dollar Community Grants Program and a Community Information Van, designed to deliver accessible, face-to-face engagement to towns across the REZ. POWERING THE REGION, TOGETHER The Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) transmission project is a oncein-a-generation undertaking and ACEREZ is committed to working hand-in-hand with the community as we deliver this vital electricity infrastructure for NSW. Inside ACEREZ’s Mudgee Community Information Centre Inset: The new Community Information Van COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM The ACEREZ Community Grants Program has officially launched and up to $4 million in grants will be available across two rounds this year. Designed to create positive outcomes well beyond the transmission project, the program will run for five rounds across three years until 2028, offering an ongoing pipeline of opportunities for community-led ideas and initiatives. Priority areas are: A community-led advisory group will review grant applications to ensure local voices are part of the decision-making process. The ACEREZ program complements funding already being delivered by EnergyCo under their Community and Employment Benefit Program, giving the region access to multiple funding streams. You can find all you need to know about the program on ACEREZ’s website: acerez.com.au/community. SCAN TO LEARN ABOUT THE COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM Public Amenity Community facilities to enhance safety, local services and respond to extreme events Education Programs to enhance young people and inter-generational outcomes Sports Programs to support grassroots sport for community inclusion Agriculture Programs to support land and agricultural management Health Programs to support physical health, mental health and wellbeing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities Initiatives to improve outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Communities
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