Council opens two community grant programs
Published on 28 July 2026
Council opens two community grant programs to support local projects and infrastructure
Cassowary Coast Regional Council is inviting eligible community members and local community organisations to apply for funding through two grant programs opening this month.
The Community Grants and Support Program and the Community Infrastructure Grants Program.
Now open and closing on 28 August 2026, the grant round provides an opportunity for local groups and eligible applicants to secure funding for projects, initiatives, events and infrastructure improvements that deliver lasting benefits to the Cassowary Coast community.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS & INITIATIVES ROUND 1
The Community Grants and Support Program provides support for identified community members and local community organisations that endeavour to make positive changes and contribute to a vibrant community.
Council provides Community Grants and Support to respond to community priorities and needs, and to create a more sustainable and resilient community by delivering social, cultural, environmental and economic outcomes.
Funding available under this program for the 2026 - 2027 financial year is $120,000, with two funding rounds of $60,000 each.
Available funding
Minor Community Project or Initiative
- Up to $2,000
- No co-contribution required
- Less detailed application
Major Community Project or Initiative
- $2,001 to $7,500
- 10% in-kind or financial contribution required
- More detailed application
Community Infrastructure Grants Program
The Community Infrastructure Grants Program supports projects that develop, renew, enhance or improve community facilities that deliver public benefit and quality outcomes for the Cassowary Coast community.
Funding available under this program for the 2026 - 2027 financial year is $225,000, with one funding round.
Available funding
Minor Community Infrastructure Project
- Up to $5,000
- 10% in-kind or financial co-contribution
- Less detailed application
Major Community Infrastructure Project
- $5,001 to $30,000
- 20% in-kind or financial contribution required, including a minimum 10% financial contribution
- More detailed application
PROJECT OBJECTIVES
Council’s grant programs support projects, activities and events that respond to community priorities and align with Council’s 2025–2030 Integrated Corporate and Operational Plan.
The programs aim to:
- build community skills, capacity and resilience
- support community infrastructure
- strengthen social inclusion and collaboration
- promote physical and mental wellbeing
- prioritise the natural environment
Both programs are delivered in line with Council policy and the Local Government Act 2009 (Qld), with a focus on transparency, sustainability, inclusion, good governance and ethical decision-making.
Applicants must meet eligibility criteria and submit their application through Council’s SmartyGrants portal, including all required supporting documentation. Visit https://www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/Living-Here/Grants-and-Funding to see all grants.
Applications will be assessed by a panel, with recommendations to be presented to the September 2026 Local Government Meeting.
QUOTE ATTRIBUTED TO MAYOR TERESA MILLWOOD:
“These grants help bring local ideas to life, whether that’s through community events, wellbeing initiatives, environmental projects, infrastructure improvements or programs that build stronger social connections. By investing in projects that strengthen resilience, encourage inclusion and support community wellbeing, we are helping to build a stronger future for the Cassowary Coast.”
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For further information contact Council at 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.