Applications open for $79.1 million in grants for Queensland manufacturers

• Crisafulli Government’s new $79.1 million Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Grant Program now open to eligible businesses.
• Grants of up to $1.5 million in matched funding are available with 50 per cent earmarked for regional manufacturers.
• The Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy and keeping Queensland open for business. 

The Crisafulli Government is securing the future of manufacturing with the opening of its new $79.1 million Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Grant Program (TQMGP) to supercharge innovation and create jobs across the state. 

The program will be delivered over three years to help small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses advance their operations and expand to global markets, ensuring the sector’s long-term growth and sustainability. 

A total of $12.5 million is available in round one, with eligible businesses able to apply for up to $1.5 million in matched grants. For the first time, half of all the funding will be exclusively available to businesses across regional Queensland. 

It’s just of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy after a decade of decline under Labor.  

Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said the grants would help bolster Queensland’s manufacturing industry with a focus on supporting regional economies.  

“Unlike Labor, the Crisafulli Government knows that Queensland doesn’t start and end in Brisbane,” Mr Last said. 

“While previous programs have heavily favoured the south-east corner, we have made sure that half of all funding available is dedicated to regional Queensland manufacturers.  

“Labor failed to deliver for our regions, but we’re making sure they are getting their fair share. The grants will secure existing manufacturing jobs, create new opportunities, and strengthen Queensland’s supply chains, contributing to the state’s economic growth. 

“Manufacturing delivers $29 billion to our economy and supports more than 171,000 jobs, including 76,700 in regional Queensland. It’s our fifth largest industry and I’m looking forward to seeing how these grants will help bolster those figures even further.  

“This is a win for Queensland manufacturers, a win for Queensland jobs, and a win for the Queensland economy.” 

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the new program was a game-changer for regional Queensland manufacturers.  

“From fabricators to food supply, defence, agriculture and transport, some of Queensland’s most successful manufacturers are based in regional Queensland,” Mr Chiesa said. 

“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. Employing an additional five to 10 people, especially in smaller areas, can make a significant difference to the community. 

“I encourage all eligible businesses to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to transform their operations and future-proof their success.” 

The program delivers on the Crisafulli Government’s Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Strategy 2025-2030 and Action Plan, that sets out a bold vision to drive greater productivity, foster innovation, and expand access to global markets after a decade of decline under Labor.