What’s Happening?
Zinfra has opened applications for its 2026 First Nations Grants program, with Townsville organisations among those eligible to apply.
The energy infrastructure service provider is inviting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led organisations and community groups to seek funding for local projects.
The grants will support programs that provide practical help, strengthen community wellbeing, build cultural connection, or create pathways into training and employment.
Eligible projects may include hands-on crisis support, such as accommodation and food pantries, as well as education, training and cultural programs.
Why It Matters
The program gives First Nations-led organisations access to funding for work already being carried out in local communities.
For Townsville, that could mean more support for groups helping people through immediate hardship, while also backing programs with longer-term outcomes.
Zinfra said the grants reflect its commitment to building stronger relationships with First Nations communities across its operating areas.
Zinfra Managing Director Peter Iancov said the company was proud to extend the program into new regions.
“We’re proud to be introducing our First Nations Community Grants in Queensland and Tasmania for the first time,” Mr Iancov said.
“We’re hoping to receive applications from groups that provide meaningful outcomes for First Nations people in their community, whether that’s immediate help to provide basic needs like food programs, as well as programs that support education, training and cultural connection.”
By the Numbers
- Up to $10,000 is available for each eligible First Nations-led organisation or community group.
- Three Queensland areas are included in the program, Townsville, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
- Applications are also invited from Tasmania and Victoria, with all regions in both states eligible.
Local Impact
Townsville organisations can use the grant opportunity to seek support for projects with clear community benefit.
The funding may help groups provide crisis support, food relief, accommodation assistance, cultural connection, training, or employment pathways.
Because the program is aimed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led organisations, it places local knowledge at the centre of the work being funded.
For community groups already working directly with First Nations people, the grants could help extend existing services or support new projects.
Zoom In
The 2026 First Nations Grants program is open to eligible organisations in selected areas where Zinfra operates.
In Queensland, that includes Townsville, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
The program is focused on three main areas. It will support services that respond to urgent needs, projects that strengthen wellbeing and culture, and initiatives that help people access training or employment.
Applicants will need to show how their project provides meaningful outcomes for First Nations people in their community.
Zoom Out
Zinfra’s grants program is being expanded into Queensland and Tasmania for the first time.
The wider program also includes Victoria and selected areas across Zinfra’s operating footprint.
By opening applications in Townsville, Zinfra is giving local First Nations-led groups another funding option for community-based work.
The focus remains on practical support, cultural connection and future pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
What To Look For Next?
Applications are now open, with eligible Townsville groups able to apply through Zinfra.
The strongest applications are likely to be those that clearly show local need and direct benefits for First Nations people.
Find out more or apply here: www.zinfra.com.au/about/community
