Energy infrastructure company Jemena is inviting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander led organisations in selected areas in Central Queensland, Gulf Country and the Darling Downs to apply for funding as part of its 2026 First Nations Grants program.
Under the program, grants of up to $10,000 will be awarded to community-led organisations and projects which provide support services (including hands-on crisis support like accommodation and food pantries); strengthen community wellbeing and cultural connection; or create pathways into training and employment for Indigenous people.
Applications are invited from organisations based in areas where Jemena operates, including:
- Queensland – Mount Isa and surrounding areas, Maryborough, Rockhampton, Rolleston, Biloela, Gladstone, Dalby, Wandoan, Roma
- New South Wales – selected regions of New South Wales where Jemena's gas distribution network is located
- Victoria – suburbs in Melbourne's north-west where Jemena's electricity distribution network is located, as well as areas near Sale
- The Northern Territory – Tennant Creek and surrounding areas.
Jemena's Executive General Manager, People, Safety and Governance, and Reconciliation Action Steering Committee Chair, Craig Ypinazar said the program is a practical demonstration of the company's ongoing reconciliation journey.
"Our Community Grants Program is one of the ways we're turning our commitment to reconciliation into meaningful action in the communities where we live and work," Mr Ypinazar said.
"We know that strong communities are built on both access to services when people need immediate assistance, and opportunities for education, training and employment. This year's program reflects that broader focus."
Mr Ypinazar said the program builds on Jemena's Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) which outlines the organisation's approach to creating better outcomes for First Nations peoples through stronger relationships, respect and opportunities.
"Through our RAP, we've committed to deepening our relationships with communities and expanding opportunities for employment, training and economic participation," he said.
This year's program builds on the success of the inaugural First Nations grants stream in 2025, which supported seven Indigenous-led organisations with $10,000 grants across New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory.
In 2025, Jemena provided $10,000 grants for literacy programs for young people, business and leadership training, job readiness and mentoring, youth mental wellbeing services, and cultural education programs.
Mr Ypinazar said the expansion of the program this year reflects both the success of those initiatives and ongoing engagement with communities.
Since launching in 2019, Jemena's Community Grants Program has awarded almost $800,000 to community organisations, supporting initiatives that deliver lasting benefits in local communities.
Applications for the First Nations Grants program are now open.
