Strengthening reconciliation across Queensland
The Queensland Government has launched the 2026 Celebrating Reconciliation Grants program, with applications open to share in $100,000 to support local events.
The program aims to support local organisations to host events in communities across Queensland during National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) to strengthen relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Queenslanders.
The grants provide up to $2,500 for eligible organisations to support local events and activities which foster and celebrate reconciliation across community. These can include cultural performances, art exhibitions, and storytelling.
Last year’s recipients included a cultural immersion at Birrunga Gallery in Brisbane, Goondiwindi’s Run for Reconciliation, Emu Park Rugby League’s Indigenous Round 2025 in Central Queensland, NRL Cowboys House’s Sorry Day breakfast in Townsville, and the Dreamtime Trust’s Yugambeh Language song recording.
Key points
- 2026 Celebrating Reconciliation Grants program now open.
- Total of $100,000 available to support local events during National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June).
- Funding aims to support local communities to host activities and events which strengthen reconciliation across Queensland.
- Government delivering practical reconciliation in partnership with local communities after Labor’s decade of decline and frontline failures.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said she remained focused on delivering community initiatives which deliver tangible outcomes to Indigenous communities across the State.
“We are focused on delivering practical programs, while also strengthening shared understanding and social cohesion. The Celebrating Reconciliation Grants will support at least 40 local events in all corners of the State during National Reconciliation Week for that purpose,” Minister Simpson said.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson.
“The Government values the inherent dignity of all citizens, and in supporting these events we acknowledge the significant heritage of our First Peoples and the importance of deepening shared understanding.”
National Reconciliation Week commemorates two significant milestones in Australia’s reconciliation journey – the successful 1967 referendum and the 1992 High Court Mabo decision.
Bringing communities together
Reconciliation Queensland Interim CEO Libby Ferrari said the program should encourage all Queenslanders to learn about their shared histories, and the strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“Every year we look forward to seeing the amazing events and programs the Celebrating Reconciliation Grants recipients deliver and the opportunities it creates in bringing communities together right across the State,” Ms Ferrari said.
“These grants create the space and place in communities to share and experience reconciliation at a local level, and this Reconciliation Week, I want to invite all Queenslanders to align with theme and go ‘All In’ in their communities.”
Applications close on 10 March. For more information, including eligibility criteria, and to apply, visit www.qld.gov.au/recgrants.
