Queensland Hydro Community Grants Program: Empowering Local Communities (Australia)

Deadline: 02-Mar-2026

The Queensland Hydro Community Grants Program provides funding of up to $10,000 (ex GST) to support initiatives that benefit communities near the proposed Borumba Pumped Hydro Project, focusing on tourism, health, environment, and community connection. The grant prioritizes projects that strengthen local economies, enhance wellbeing, protect the environment, and foster inclusive, connected communities, particularly in Kilcoy, Jimna, Imbil, and Mary Valley.

Overview of the Grant

The Queensland Hydro Community Grants Program is designed to empower local communities near the proposed Borumba Pumped Hydro Project to implement initiatives that create tangible social, environmental, and economic benefits.

The grant supports projects that:

• Boost local tourism and economic opportunities

• Improve health and wellbeing

• Promote environmental sustainability and protection

• Foster community connection and engagement

Funding is guided by the Community Benefits Panel, composed of local representatives who ensure that priorities are set by and for the community.

Strategic Priority Areas

Projects must contribute to at least one of the following strategic areas:

1. Tourism and Economy – Initiatives that attract visitors, support local businesses, or build industry capability.

2. Health and Wellbeing – Programs that improve community health, promote active lifestyles, or support inclusivity.

3. Environment and Sustainability – Activities that enhance or protect local ecosystems and encourage sustainable practices.

4. Community Connection – Projects that bring people together, strengthen social cohesion, and build resilient communities.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Located within the Somerset or Gympie Local Government Areas

• Organisations including:

  • Community trusts

  • Incorporated community associations

  • Not-for-profits and social enterprises

  • Charities or public benevolent institutions

• Demonstrated legal and financial standing

• Able to deliver the initiative within 12 months

• Alignment with Queensland Hydro values and the Community Benefits Framework

Applicants may also apply through an auspicing organisation, provided the auspice meets these eligibility criteria.

Ineligible Applicants and Projects

The following are not eligible:

• Individuals or for-profit businesses

• Government departments, statutory bodies, or government-owned corporations (except schools)

• Social clubs, political organisations, labour or trade unions

• Political, religious, or socially divisive groups

• Initiatives already started or completed

• Requests for ongoing administrative costs

• Events such as fundraisers, performances, conferences, symposia, or sports competitions

• Organisations that have previously received a Queensland Hydro grant and have not completed acquittal

Funding Details

• Maximum Grant Amount: $10,000 (ex GST)

• Project Duration: Must be completed within 12 months of the start date

• Priority Areas: Kilcoy, Jimna, Imbil, and Mary Valley communities

Why This Grant Matters

• Supports local development by strengthening businesses and attracting visitors

• Enhances community wellbeing through inclusive and active initiatives

• Promotes environmental stewardship in key regional areas

• Encourages social cohesion by funding projects that connect people and communities

• Ensures community-led decision making through the Community Benefits Panel

How to Apply / What to Do

1. Check Eligibility – Confirm your organisation and project meet location, legal, and strategic requirements.

2. Align Project with Priorities – Demonstrate how the initiative contributes to tourism, health, environment, or community connection.

3. Prepare Application – Include project objectives, outcomes, budget, timeline, and evidence of community benefit.

4. Submit Application – Complete submission before the grant round closes.

5. Panel Assessment – Applications reviewed by the Community Benefits Panel for alignment with priorities.

6. Funding Decision – Successful applicants notified and expected to complete projects within 12 months.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Clearly articulate community benefit and measurable outcomes

• Demonstrate alignment with Queensland Hydro values

• Include realistic timelines and budgets

• Emphasize local impact, especially in priority communities

• Highlight sustainability and long-term benefits

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying as an ineligible organisation

• Proposing projects outside the strategic priority areas

• Submitting incomplete or poorly aligned applications

• Requesting funding for ongoing administration or past activities

• Ignoring community engagement and local impact

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for this grant?

Community trusts, incorporated associations, charities, not-for-profits, social enterprises, and public benevolent institutions within the Somerset or Gympie LGAs.

2. What is the maximum funding available?

Up to $10,000 (ex GST) per project.

3. What types of projects are supported?

Projects must align with tourism and economy, health and wellbeing, environment and sustainability, or community connection.

4. Can individuals apply?

No, individuals and for-profit businesses are not eligible.

5. Are there location priorities?

Yes, priority is given to projects in Kilcoy, Jimna, Imbil, and Mary Valley communities.

6. How long must the project take to complete?

Projects must be completed within 12 months of the start date.

7. How are applications assessed?

Applications are reviewed by the Community Benefits Panel, which evaluates alignment with strategic priorities, community impact, and sustainability.

Conclusion

The Queensland Hydro Community Grants Program provides vital funding to strengthen communities near the proposed Borumba Pumped Hydro Project. By supporting initiatives in tourism, health, environment, and social connection, the program empowers local organisations to deliver meaningful, sustainable, and community-led projects that enhance wellbeing, foster cohesion, and contribute to regional development.

For more information, visit Queensland Hydro.