Expressions of interest have now closed
Expressions of interest for the 2026 NAIDOC Week Community Grants have now closed. This page remains available as a record of the grant opportunity and the activities supported through this initiative.
NAIDOC WEEK
GRANTS 2026
Country to Coast Queensland is pleased to offer 12 grants of $2,000 to support community activities and events that celebrate culture, strengthen connection and bring people together across Central Queensland, Wide Bay and the Sunshine Coast.
National NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate the living cultures, deep knowledge and ongoing custodianship of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Country to Coast Queensland is privileged to work across the lands of the Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi), Jinibara, Wakka Wakka, Wulli Wulli, Auburn Hawkwood, Butchulla, Bailai, Gooreng Gooreng, Gurang, Taribelang Bunda, Darumbal, Woopaburra, Barada Kabalbara Yetimarla, Gaangulu, Kangoulu, Wadja, Gayiri, Bidjara, Karingbal and the Iman peoples.
NAIDOC Week provides an opportunity to celebrate these communities, their Countries and the rich and enduring cultures that shape our region.
Who can apply?
If your activity celebrates culture, strengthens connection to Country or supports the health and wellbeing of your community, we would like to hear from you.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led organisations and ACCOs/ACCHOs are strongly encouraged to apply. Applications from these organisations will be given priority consideration.
To be eligible, your organisation must:
- be an incorporated legal entity, or be auspiced by one
- be located within Central Queensland, Wide Bay or the Sunshine Coast
- if not Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led, demonstrate community consultation and support from local First Nations peoples as part of the EOI
- nominate one lead organisation to submit the application, if applying in partnership
The following are not eligible to apply:
- individuals
- government agencies
- local councils
- organisations based outside Country to Coast Queensland’s region.
Activities might include:
- arts and crafts activities like painting, weaving, woodburning or sculpture
- yarning circles
- community events or family fun days
- wellbeing sessions
- Elders morning teas
- shared meals, including a Kup Murri.
How to apply
To apply for a NAIDOC Week grant, submit an Expression of Interest that tells us about your organisation, your proposed activity, and how it will celebrate culture, community and Country.
Expressions of Interest close at 5pm on Friday 8 May 2026. Complete the online form to apply, or call 07 5456 8100 if you need support.
FAQs
Does our activity have to take place during NAIDOC Week?
We welcome activities delivered in the spirit of NAIDOC Week. If your activity falls outside NAIDOC Week itself, please explain how it connects to the celebration.
Can we partner with another organisation?
Yes. Partnerships are encouraged. One lead organisation must submit the EOI and be responsible for the grant.
Do we need to be an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation to apply?
No. However, priority consideration will be given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led organisations and ACCOs/ACCHOs. Non-First Nations organisations must demonstrate consultation with and support from local First Nations peoples as part of their EOI.
What can funds be spent on?
Funds can be used for costs directly related to your activity, such as materials, activity costs, venue hire and catering. Funds cannot be used for alcohol, capital purchases or costs not directly related to the activity.