Applications have opened for the Crisafulli Government’s new $79.1 million Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Grant Program, with regional manufacturers, including those in Hinchinbrook, set to benefit from a significant share of the funding.
The program will be delivered over three years to support small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses to modernise operations, adopt new technologies and expand into global markets. In the first funding round, $12.5 million is available, with individual grants of up to $1.5 million offered on a matched-funding basis. Notably, 50 per cent of the total funding has been earmarked exclusively for regional Queensland businesses.
Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the program could be transformative for manufacturers across the region, where a wide range of industries already play a critical role in local economies.
“From fabricators to food supply, defence, agriculture and transport, some of Queensland’s most successful manufacturers are based in regional Queensland,” Mr Chiesa said.
He said access to matched funding could provide local businesses with the capacity to expand their workforce or invest in upgraded machinery and equipment.
“The new TQMGP could be the difference in a local manufacturer being able to put on new staff or make an upgrade to some of their machinery,” Mr Chiesa said.
“Employing an additional five to 10 people, especially in smaller areas, can make a significant difference to the community.”
Manufacturing contributes $29 billion annually to Queensland’s economy and supports more than 171,000 jobs statewide, including more than 76,000 in regional areas. The government says the grant program is designed to strengthen supply chains, improve productivity and ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector.
Mr Chiesa encouraged eligible Hinchinbrook businesses to consider applying.
“I encourage all eligible businesses to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to transform their operations and future-proof their success,” he said.
The program forms part of the government’s Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Strategy 2025–2030, which aims to drive innovation and economic growth across both metropolitan and regional Queensland.
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