Mackay Groups Could Tap Into $2 Million Multicultural Funding Boost

Mackay and Isaac community groups could be eligible to apply for a share of a $2 million Queensland Government funding pool aimed at strengthening multicultural communities and creating greater opportunities for young people.

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Applications have opened for the 2026–27 round of the Strengthening Communities Multicultural Grants program, with individual grants of up to $100,000 available for eligible locally led projects.

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The annual, open competitive grants program provides funding for projects involving culturally and linguistically diverse communities, groups and individuals, as well as the broader community, with the aim of building an inclusive, harmoniousand united Queensland.

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For the purposes of the program, culturally and linguistically diverse communities include people from migrant and refugee backgrounds, people seeking asylum, and Australian South Sea Islander peoples.

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The 2026–27 funding round includes two categories – Empowering Multicultural Community Projects and Youth and Community Connection Projects – with up to $100,000 available under each category.

Projects could include community-based activities such as workshops, training, skills development, knowledge and awareness raising, and activities designed to foster social connections.

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The program also supports targeted activities that can increase community participation, economic independence, inclusion or access to opportunities within local communities.

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To be eligible, projects must support the economic and social aspirations of people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, enhance community capacity to address emerging issues and improve access to services, increase the cultural capability of local services, or enhance the capacity of community groups to connect culturally diverse people with community activities.

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Minister for Multiculturalism Fiona Simpson said the funding would support locally led initiatives across Queensland.

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"We’re focused on bringing people together this month and this funding pool supports Queenslanders from all backgrounds to fully participate in community life and access the opportunities they need to thrive," Minister Simpson said.

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"The Strengthening Communities Multicultural Grants drive innovative projects in communities where they have the greatest impact and aim to strengthen economic participation, build capacity, and boost the positive participation of young people.

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"Whether it's helping individuals develop new skills, supporting community organisations to respond to local challenges, or broadening opportunities for people to feel connected and empowered, these projects make a real difference.

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The Queensland Government has previously supported projects across metropolitan and regional Queensland through the program, with the 2025–26 round supporting 25 projects across the Far North, North, Central, South East and Western Queensland regions.

Eligible applicants include not-for-profit and charitable organisations, incorporated associations, eligible companies, cooperatives, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporations, local councils, state school P&Cs, Queensland universitiesand eligible social enterprises.

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Unincorporated associations may also apply through an eligible auspice organisation.

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Applications for the 2026–27 round close at 11.59pm on October 4th 2026, with projects to commence from July 1st 2027. Funded projects can be delivered over a two-year period through to June 30th 2029.

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Mackay and Isaac organisations with ideas that could strengthen multicultural participation, community connections or opportunities for young people are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements and consider applying.

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To apply or find out more information, visit: https://www.dwatsipm.qld.gov.au/scmg-program 

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