Community groups invited to apply for streamlined TRC grants

Published on 22 June 2026

Community groups across the Toowoomba Region are encouraged to apply for funding through Toowoomba Regional Council’s (TRC) refreshed community grants program, with applications opening from Wednesday, July 1, 2026. 

TRC Community Development, Facilities and Tourism portfolio spokesperson Cr James O’Shea said eligible community and not-for-profit groups are welcome to apply for funding to assist their projects or events. Applications must be lodged online, with August 12, 2026, the cut-off date for the coming financial year. 

Cr O’Shea said to better support the community, the former grant programs (Community Economic Development Grant, Community Support Grant, Environment Grant, Events Support Grant, Sports Tourism Event Grant, Sport and Recreation Grant and Youth Support Grant) have been phased out to make way for a transformed approach under one clear policy and guideline.  

“Eligible community and not-for-profit groups will notice a streamlined application process and clearer guidelines under one grant policy. The shift is designed to improve the applicant experience and offer greater consistency, fairness and transparency for applicants,” Cr O’Shea said. 

“Council has established three funding categories (micro grants up to $1,000, which are available across the year from July 1 until available funds are allocated; minor grants from $1,001 up to $10,000 and major grants from $10,001 to $150,000) each with a tailored application form designed to align with the scale and requirements of the funding requested. Applications can be submitted via Council’s SmartyGrants portal.

“Importantly, the new policy and guideline remove the previous individual grant program funding caps, giving community groups far greater flexibility to shape projects that best meet local needs. The competitive assessment process means that funding is not guaranteed.

“Council will give preference to new applicants, especially applications that illustrate: alignment to Council’s priorities, demonstrated community need, capacity to deliver and regional benefit. 

“Council is committed to supporting community groups and the projects and events they deliver through impactful grant funding. The new policy and guideline also introduce a seed funding approach, limiting support for new and existing initiatives to two successful applications. This is to encourage long term sustainability and greater self sufficiency among community groups.

“Council also encourages applicants to explore alternative funding sources via the Grants Guru online portal.”

Cr O’Shea said applicants are encouraged to speak with Council’s Community Development Officers (CDOs) or Grants and Sponsorship Officer by calling 131 872 to receive guidance when preparing their grant applications. 

The outcomes of the grant round are expected to be known by early October.  

For more information, please visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/grants