Celebrating Reconciliation Grants

Support for community-led activities that bring people together

National Reconciliation Week is a time to learn, connect and strengthen relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader community.

The Celebrating Reconciliation Grants provide funding for local events and activities that promote understanding, respect, inclusion and social cohesion across Queensland. Grants of $2,500 (excluding GST) are available to help community organisations deliver activities that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, stories and contributions during National Reconciliation Week 2027.

Whether you're planning a community gathering, cultural showcase, yarning circle, workshop or awareness campaign, this funding can help bring your idea to life and create meaningful opportunities for people to learn, share and connect.

Funding available

• Grants of $2,500 (excluding GST) are available for eligible projects and activities.
• Activities should be delivered during National Reconciliation Week—27 May to 3 June 2027.
• All funded activities must be completed by 30 June 2027.
• Funding is awarded through a competitive application process.

Every Queensland community has a role to play in reconciliation. If you have an idea that helps people connect, learn and walk forward together, we encourage you to apply.

What we're looking for

We want to support activities that help build stronger relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Queenslanders.

Your activity should:

• promote understanding, respect and trust
• strengthen community connections
• encourage inclusion and participation
• raise awareness of National Reconciliation Week
• create opportunities for people to learn about and engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and achievements.

A requirement of the program is that Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples are meaningfully involved in designing and delivering the activity. This could include working with Elders, Traditional Owners, community organisations, artists, performers, facilitators or speakers.

Examples of activities that may be funded

Eligible activities may include:

• community events that bring people together and encourage participation
• cultural performances, exhibitions and showcases
• local history and storytelling projects
• yarning circles and community conversations
• workshops, presentations and learning activities
• food and bush tucker experiences
• resources such as videos, podcasts, websites, booklets or displays that promote awareness and understanding.

These are just examples. If your idea aligns with the program objectives, we encourage you to apply.

Who can apply

Eligible applicants include:

• incorporated associations
• registered charities and not-for-profit organisations
• local governments
• Australian companies
• companies limited by guarantee
• incorporated trustees acting on behalf of a trust.

To be eligible, organisations must:

• be based in Queensland
• deliver the funded activity in Queensland
• hold a valid Australian Business Number (ABN).

If your organisation is not eligible to apply directly, you may be able to apply through an eligible auspice organisation.

What can funding be used for

Funding can support direct costs associated with delivering your activity, including:

• venue and equipment hire
• materials and supplies
• cultural performers, artists and entertainers
• catering and produce
• event theming and other activity-related expenses.

Funding cannot be used for salary and wages, administration costs, insurance, alcohol, prizes or gifts, capital works, or activities already completed.

Tips for a strong application

Strong applications clearly explain:

• how the activity supports reconciliation
• who will benefit and how the community will be involved
• how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples will contribute to planning and delivery
• what success will look like
• how the funding will be used through a realistic and achievable budget.

Remember, assessors can only consider the information you provide, so make your responses clear, practical and focused on outcomes.

Key dates

• Applications close: 18 December 2026, 12pm (AEST)
• Successful applicants announced: March 2027
• National Reconciliation Week: 27 May to 3 June 2027
• Activities completed by: 30 June 2027

How to apply

1. Read the funding guidelines 2027 Celebrating Reconciliation Grants guidelines (DOCX, 1.1 MB) (PDF, 554.3 KB).
2. Check any Blue Card working with children requirements if your activity involves young people.
3. Complete and submit your application online through SmartyGrants before the closing date.

Apply now

Download

• 2027 Celebrating Reconciliation Grants guidelines (DOCX, 1.1 MB) (PDF, 554.3 KB)
• Frequently asked questions (FAQs) (DOCX, 1.1 MB) (PDF, 453.5 KB)

Need help?

If you'd like to discuss your idea or need help with your application, we're here to assist.

• Email: crg@dwatsipm.qld.gov.au
• Phone: 07 3097 7725
• Interpreter service: 1800 512 451 (ask for an interpreter)
• Regional service centres: Find a service centre near you.