Introducing RWTA Funding Finder, a new feature in Chilled Out Chronicles highlighting grants, incentives and support programmes relevant to the cold chain. Available to all RWTA members, each update will explain what’s on offer, who may qualify and where to apply. Our first opportunities focus on businesses operating in NSW.
NSW: Funding to kick-start your electric fleet
Considering electric vehicles for your cold-chain operations? NSW’s Kick-start programme offers eligible businesses incentives for up to 15 battery electric vehicles, including up to $50,000 per eligible heavy commercial vehicle, plus support for smart charging infrastructure. This could help offset the upfront cost of trialling electric vehicles in your fleet. New applicants currently join a waiting list, with applications scheduled to close on 30 November 2026, unless the waitlist closes earlier.
Check eligibility and funding details
NSW: Taking your electric fleet further? Funding closes soon
NSW’s Competitive Bid programme has $11.5 million available to support larger fleet transitions to electric vehicles and smart chargers. Eligible applicants must operate at least 21 vehicles and seek funding for 11 or more new battery electric vehicles; this round covers passenger vehicles, SUVs and light commercial vehicles, including light trucks up to 4.5 tonnes GVM. For cold-chain members planning fleet upgrades, the funding could help bridge the cost of switching to electric. Initial bids close at 5 pm AEDT on 16 October 2026.
Explore eligibility and submit a bid
NSW: Fresh talent to advance your sustainability projects
Have a cold-chain decarbonisation project that needs extra research or analytical support? NSW Skills for Net Zero connects eligible businesses with paid tertiary student interns, provides CSIRO recruitment and placement support, and offers up to $2,500 towards internship wages on completion. Potential projects could include refrigeration energy analysis, transport emissions measurement or research into operational efficiency, subject to programme approval. Participation is free, but businesses cover employment costs and must employ the intern for at least 200 hours.
