REDLAND City Council has overhauled its community grants and sponsorship program, opening applications for two new funding streams aimed at supporting urgent community needs and attracting major events to the region.
Community groups and event organisers can now apply for the Rapid Response Grant and the Signature Events Attraction and Retention Fund under Council’s newly structured Events on Redlands Coast and Stronger Communities programs.
Mayor Jos Mitchell said the revamped approach was designed to better reflect the evolving needs of the Redlands Coast community.
“The new funding programs will support the community in the delivery of events that enhance the vibrancy of our region and in the provision of services to support the wellbeing of people of all ages and abilities across the city,” the Mayor said.
“They also align closely with Council’s strategic direction outlined in the current Corporate Plan and its focus on areas such as strong communities, thriving economy and Quandamooka Country.”
The Rapid Response Grant is targeted at community organisations facing immediate pressures or seeking to strengthen their operations, with funding available from $500 to $3000.
The grants can be used for a range of community-focused activities, including volunteer support, digital upgrades, governance and planning initiatives, wildlife care assistance and the purchase of small portable equipment for community benefit.
Larger-scale events are supported through the Signature Events Attraction and Retention Fund, which is aimed at professionally delivered events that have been successfully staged for at least two years and can demonstrate clear commercial benefits for the Redlands Coast.
Eligible applicants can seek up to $60,000 per financial year for a period of up to three years.
An additional funding component of up to $1500 is available to support Quandamooka cultural awareness and inclusion activities, including performances by Quandamooka dancers, cultural demonstrations and smoking ceremonies as part of funded events or activities.
Applications for both the Rapid Response Grant and the Signature Events Attraction and Retention Fund are open until 30 April 2026, or until available funds are fully allocated.
Council has also announced application windows for the remaining funding streams under the new grants framework, with the Community Celebration Grant open from 9 February to 8 March, the Community Support Grant from 23 February to 22 March, the Event Grant from 9 March to 4 April, and the Build and Thrive Grant from 23 March to 19 April.
Further information on eligibility requirements and how to apply is available on Redland City Council’s grants and sponsorship webpage.
