More than half a million dollars in Queensland Government funding has been awarded to a diverse range of community organisations in the Cairns region, providing a significant boost for local projects and services.
Substantial Grants for Local Initiatives
The funding injection, totalling $550,000, was announced by Member for Cairns Michael Healy. The grants are distributed through the Queensland Government's Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF), which redirects profits from state-owned gambling operations back into local communities.
Mr Healy emphasised the critical role this funding plays in supporting the grassroots organisations that form the backbone of the Cairns community. "These grants are vital for our local groups to purchase equipment, improve facilities, and continue delivering their important services," he stated.
Which Organisations Are Benefiting?
A wide array of local groups across various sectors will receive a share of the funds. Among the notable recipients is the Cairns and District Chinese Association Inc., which has been granted $34,999. This funding is earmarked for the purchase of essential equipment, including marquees, tables, and chairs, which will support their cultural activities and community events.
Other successful applicants include sporting clubs, cultural associations, and service organisations, all of which submitted proposals for specific projects or necessary equipment purchases. The GCBF is one of Queensland's largest one-off grant programs, designed to directly benefit community groups where the funds are needed most.
How the Funding Program Works
The Gambling Community Benefit Fund operates on a quarterly basis, with rounds closing at the end of March, June, September, and December each year. This consistent schedule allows community groups to plan their applications for funding that can range up to $35,000 per project.
The program is a cornerstone of the state's community support framework, ensuring that revenue from gambling activities is reinvested into positive social outcomes. For many smaller, volunteer-run organisations in Cairns, these grants represent a crucial financial lifeline, enabling them to undertake projects that would otherwise be unaffordable.
Michael Healy encouraged other eligible community groups in the Cairns electorate to consider applying for future funding rounds. "I urge all local not-for-profit groups to look at the GCBF and see if it can help them achieve their goals for our community," he said.
The latest funding round underscores the Queensland Government's ongoing commitment to supporting regional communities like Cairns, ensuring they have the resources to thrive and maintain their vibrant local character.
