What’s Happening?
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led organisations across selected parts of regional Queensland are being encouraged to apply for Jemena’s 2026 First Nations Grants program.
The program is open to eligible groups in Central Queensland, Gulf Country and the Darling Downs. In Queensland, applications are invited from organisations in Rockhampton, Mount Isa and surrounding areas, Maryborough, Rolleston, Biloela, Gladstone, Dalby, Wandoan and Roma.
Jemena is seeking community-led projects that provide practical support, strengthen community wellbeing and cultural connection, or create pathways into training and employment for Indigenous people. This can include hands-on crisis support, such as accommodation and food pantries.
Applications are also open in selected regions of New South Wales where Jemena’s gas distribution network is located. Eligible areas also include suburbs in Melbourne’s north-west, areas near Sale, and Tennant Creek and surrounding areas in the Northern Territory.
Jemena’s Executive General Manager, People, Safety and Governance, and Reconciliation Action Steering Committee Chair, Craig Ypinazar, said the program puts the company’s reconciliation work into practice.
“Our Community Grants Program is one of the ways we’re turning our commitment to reconciliation into meaningful action in the communities where we live and work,” Mr Ypinazar said.
“We know that strong communities are built on both access to services when people need immediate assistance, and opportunities for education, training and employment. This year’s program reflects that broader focus.”
Why It Matters?
For regional First Nations organisations, grant funding can help support work already being led within local communities.
The program recognises that community need is not limited to one area. Some groups may be helping people through crisis support, while others may be focused on culture, youth wellbeing, training or employment.
Mr Ypinazar said the program builds on Jemena’s Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan, which sets out the company’s approach to relationships, respect and opportunities for First Nations peoples.
“Through our RAP, we’ve committed to deepening our relationships with communities and expanding opportunities for employment, training and economic participation,” he said.
By the Numbers
The funding builds on Jemena’s existing community grants work, with a specific focus on First Nations-led projects.
- Each successful project can receive up to $10,000, giving local groups direct support for community-led work.
- In 2025, seven Indigenous-led organisations received grants across Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory.
- Since launching in 2019, Jemena’s Community Grants Program has awarded almost $800,000 to community organisations.
Local Impact
The Queensland eligibility list gives several regional communities a chance to seek support for First Nations-led programs.
Central Queensland groups in Rockhampton, Rolleston, Biloela and Gladstone are eligible to apply. The program also reaches Maryborough, Mount Isa and surrounding areas, and Darling Downs communities including Dalby, Wandoan and Roma.
Funding could support services for families in need, cultural education projects, youth mental wellbeing programs, mentoring, job readiness work or local training pathways.
For smaller organisations, the program may help extend existing work or get new community projects moving.
Zoom In
The 2026 round follows Jemena’s inaugural First Nations grants stream in 2025.
That earlier round supported literacy programs for young people, business and leadership training, job readiness and mentoring, youth mental wellbeing services and cultural education programs.
Mr Ypinazar said this year’s expansion reflects the success of those initiatives and Jemena’s continued engagement with communities.
Zoom Out
Jemena’s First Nations Grants program forms part of its wider Community Grants Program.
The company operates across several states and territories, and the 2026 program reflects that footprint. Alongside Queensland, eligible areas include selected parts of New South Wales, Victoria and the Northern Territory.
The program also sits within Jemena’s wider reconciliation work, with funding aimed at practical outcomes in communities where the company operates.
What To Look For Next?
Applications for the 2026 First Nations Grants program are now open through Jemena’s Community Grants page at www.jemena.com.au/communitygrants.
The successful projects will likely show how First Nations-led organisations are meeting local needs through support services, cultural connection, training and employment.
