The JONZA project is a capacity building project based on the recommendations of the RAMJO Regional Energy Strategy, adopted in 2022. The focus is to assist member councils accelerate activities which will:

• reduce the emissions of the participating Councils,
• increase efficiencies, and
• assist the NSW Government to meet the goals outlined in its Net Zero policies and strategies.

The Joint Organisation Net Zero Acceleration (JONZA) grant program was first funded in 2023 by NSW State Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) to employ a dedicated in-house staff member for twelve months. This additional staff member was to help to drive progress toward the recommendations of the RAMJO Regional Energy Strategy, and help achieve net zero outcomes.

We were once again successful in acquiring funding for the project in 2024 and now in 2025 we have acquired 18 months of funding to continue the work achieved under the JONZA banner – more details below.

RAMJO has been successful in securing the third round of funding for the Joint Organisation Net Zero Accelerator (JONZA) program. The continuation of this funding program is a testament to the success of the previous two rounds and is further evidenced by an increase in funding, which will extend the program by six months—taking it to an 18-month initiative running from July 2026 to December 2027.

The JONZA Project Manager, in conjunction with our member councils, has developed a comprehensive program plan detailing multiple projects aligned with the primary outcomes for JONZA 3.0. These outcomes focus on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, improving energy efficiency, and supporting councils on their pathway to net zero.

In progressing the program, JONZA PM Tamara Cummins has begun engaging with member councils through face-to-face visits to better understand how RAMJO can support them in achieving both environmental and financial benefits through the JONZA program.

A key feature of this support is access to Cassora, a tool specifically developed for local governments to track and measure their GHG emissions. The NSW Government’s Sustainable Councils team, in partnership with 100% Renewables, created the tool to address the unique needs of councils. Through the JONZA program, each RAMJO council has been assigned a license to use Carbon Compass, valued at $50,000.

This tool will enable member councils to lead the way in tracking and reporting on their emissions, identifying emission reduction opportunities, and planning projects that deliver long-term environmental and economic benefits for their communities.

As we enter the next phase of the JONZA program, RAMJO looks forward to continuing our collaborative efforts with councils and state partners to accelerate the transition to net zero across our region

If you would like further information about the project components or how you can be involved, please contact Tamara Cummins at  tamara.cummins@ramjo.nsw.gov.au.

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