- Budget unlocks economic opportunities for women and strengthens participation for First Peoples and multicultural communities.
- New $20 million Returning to Work package to support women transitioning back to work after having children, caring for family or after illness.
- $5 million boost to empower multicultural community groups, coupled with $1.5 million increased funding to support the work of Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering for Queensland by breaking down barriers and unlocking economic opportunities for women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and multicultural communities in the 2025-26 Budget.
The $167.6 million Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism Budget lays the foundation for a fresh start with cultural empowerment opportunities for all Queenslanders — no matter where you're from or where you live.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering on a key election commitment with the $20 million Returning to Work program, removing the economic barriers for women transitioning back to the workforce after having children, caring for family or following illness.
The program will deliver grants of up to $5,000 to help meet costs of childcare, re-certification and training, workwear, preparation of CVs or job hunting, technology or work relocation costs.
The Budget also continues delivering the $108 million Closing the Gap Priorities Fund – with $8 million each for Kowanyama and Aurukun for the crucial water supply improvements, as well as $3 million for the Buwu education program in Cherbourg.
The Crisafulli Government made a further commitment of $18 million to restore the clean drinking water supply in Woorabinda, with a request for matched funding from the Australian Government.
The Crisafulli Government will also increase opportunities for multicultural groups across the State to build or upgrade community halls, meeting spaces, or sporting facilities through an additional $5 million in Multicultural Connect grants, a key election commitment.
The Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland will receive increased funding of $1.5 million to expand their vital support services which contribute to building an inclusive, harmonious and united Queensland.
Treasurer David Janetzki said the 2025–26 Budget was about delivering for Queensland through a stronger economy.
"We promised a fresh start for Queensland and that's exactly what this Budget delivers," Treasurer Janetzki said.
"After crises in youth crime, health, housing and cost of living, this Budget delivers the foundation for safety where you live, health services when you need them, a better lifestyle through a stronger economy and a plan for Queensland's future."
Minister for Women and Women's Economic Security, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, and Multiculturalism Fiona Simpson said the Crisafulli Government was delivering opportunities for all Queenslanders to thrive, particularly those in remote communities, who were ignored by the former Labor Government.
"We are delivering for all Queenslanders, no matter where you're from or where you live, this Budget helps deliver a better lifestyle for a stronger economy," Minister Simpson said.
"From our First Peoples to our newest Queenslanders, everyone in our State deserves the opportunity to contribute to their communities and create a brighter future for the next generation.
"This Budget also launches the Returning to Work program to support women's economic security – because the cost of job seeking shouldn't stand in the way of employment.
"These budget measures are targeted, considered and will have a tangible impact on people across Queensland, many of whom were out-of-sight and out-of-mind during the decade of the previous Labor Government."
