What We Do
Groundswell connects the people and organisations driving climate action across Australia – from community organisers and First Nation leaders, to policy experts and storytellers shaping public debate.
Our approach turns individual giving into movement-wide impact. Instead of funding one campaign in isolation, we strengthen the coordination and strategy that help the whole ecosystem act quickly, respond to political openings and deliver wins that matter.
Since 2020, our community has channelled more than $7 million into this work — stopping harmful fossil fuel projects, shifting national narratives, securing policy progress and supporting the leadership needed for long-term change.
Community Grantmaking
Over $7 million raised
|
148 grant winners
| 300+ members
|
Over $7 million raised | 148 grant winners | 300+ members |
Some of the climate wins the Groundswell community have made possible lately…
Secured $100 million in state investment
This funding will support new jobs across NSW’s coal regions, proving the energy transition can deliver secure, high-wage jobs for the communities that have powered Australia for generations. With Groundswell’s backing, this worker-led coalition is making sure local voices are shaping big decisions on offshore wind, transition planning and job creation.
Put climate reporting on the map
Groundswell funding enabled AAP to embed a climate correspondent ahead of the 2025 election, delivering dozens of stories across 80+ publications, reaching more than 300 regional outlets. By putting climate issues front and centre in overlooked communities, this reporting ensured voters had independent, trusted information when it mattered most.
Won a 30% battery rebate
After years of relentless advocacy, Solar Citizens helped secure a federal rebate on home batteries in an election year – protecting 4 million solar households, debunking nuclear myths, and positioning batteries as the next big step. The policy is set to save households up to $1,100 a year and unlock over a million new batteries by 2030, a critical boost for Australia’s clean energy future.
Exposed a 20-year gas cover up
Obtained explosive FOI documents revealing Santos’ Darwin LNG hub has been leaking huge amounts of methane since 2006 – a scandal regulators knew about but failed to act on. By uncovering this, ECNT is challenging regulatory capture and pressuring the government to fix one of Australia’s most dangerous and costly methane leaks.
Held big polluters to account
Parents for Climate’s legal action forced EnergyAustralia to apologise to 400,000 customers and settle over greenwashing claims – a landmark win setting a new standard for corporate climate accountability. Now, they are preparing legal action to hold the federal government accountable to its emissions reduction targets.
Secured $77 million for Torres Strait resilience
A major federal investment in seawalls and climate infrastructure across five Torres Strait islands marks a vital step in adapting to rising seas. This funding will help safeguard homes, culture and communities on the frontline of climate impacts, with First Nations leadership guiding the path forward.
