Grants now open for community-based projects

3 September 2025

Southern Downs Regional Council’s 2025/26 Community Grants Program is now open, and not-for-profit groups across the region are invited to apply for grants of up to $2,000 to bring their community-based initiatives to life.

From community development and cultural projects to social services, recreational programs and infrastructure upgrades, a total funding pool of $50k is available to support the ideas that make the Southern Downs thrive.

Council’s spokesperson for Inspired Communities Cr Morwenna Harslett said the grants program continues to celebrate the vital role community organisations play in shaping the region’s identity and wellbeing.

“Community groups bring people together, improve local amenities and foster a sense of pride and belonging,” Cr Harslett said.

“The 2025/26 Community Grants Program offers a valuable boost for groups working with limited resources and helps turn great ideas into real outcomes.

“Last year, Council supported 28 incredible projects and we’re excited to see what this year’s round will bring.

“Whether it’s a new community event or an upgrade to a local facility, Council is here to support initiatives that benefit the Southern Downs.”

Previous projects funded by the 2024/25 Community Grants Program included:

• Southern Downs Suicide Prevention Network - Out of the Shadows Walk
• Ballandean Hall and Sports Club - Festival of Small Halls
• Warwick AFC Inc - Security upgrades to the Redbacks clubhouse
• Warwick Fish Stocking Assoc - Grass line trimmers for the day use area at Leslie Dam
• Granite Borders Landcare Committee - Stanthorpe Eco Expo 2024
• Rotary Club of Stanthorpe - Solar panels
• Killarney Bowls Club Inc - New signage
• Stanthorpe Blue Water Fishing & Restocking Club Inc - Restocking native fish fingerlings in the Severn River and tributaries 
• Granite Belt Support Services - Disability Action Week workshop

Applications close Tuesday 30 June 2026, however the program may close sooner if funding is fully allocated prior. All applications need to be submitted via SmartyGrants. Guidelines and forms are available on Council’s website: https://www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/doing-business/grants-to-community-radf/grants-to-community. For more information, contact Council’s Grants Officer on 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372).