If you own or are involved in the operation of a commercial office building then you may be eligible for a grant under the Green Building Fund.

The Green Building Fund aims to reduce the impact of Australia's green house gas emissions by reducing the energy consumed in the operation of existing commercial office buildings.

With grants ranging from $50,000 to $500,000, the program will provide $90 million in grants over 4 years, representing a significant investment by the government to reduce the carbon footprint left by commercial office buildings.

The program will provide the grants through two streams of activity.

Stream A: For owners of existing commercial office buildings - Applications open until 30 June 2009

Owners of existing commercial official buildings who propose to reduce their energy consumption may be eligible for grants ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 (to a maximum of 50% of project costs). Grants over $500,000 may be available under limited circumstances for larger buildings.

Stream A projects must commence after 1 July 2008, and not more than 8 months after a grant application is accepted. It must be completed within two years, and no later than 31 December 2011.

Stream B: For Industry Associations - Applications will be open from 1 July 2009

Stream B will provide a limited number of grants to Industry Associations who develop the knowledge, skills or capability of those involved in the operation of commercial office buildings, to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. Grants of up to $200,000 are available (to a maximum of 50% of project costs).

Stream B projects must commence on or after 1 July 2009 and projects must not exceed a maximum of twelve months in duration.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.