Community organisations across Queensland can apply for $500 grants to host activities recognising unpaid carers during National Carers Week in October.
Carers Queensland has opened Expressions of Interest for its new Community Activity Grants program, which aims to help local organisations create events that bring carers together and recognise the contribution they make to their families and communities.
The grants, worth $500 excluding GST, are available to eligible not-for-profit organisations and community groups. Funding can be used for activities held during National Carers Week, which runs from 11 to 17 October 2026.
Carers Queensland says groups can use the funding for a range of activities, including recognition morning teas, creative workshops, cultural gatherings, community events and wellbeing activities.
The initiative comes as Queensland prepares to recognise the estimated 642,000 people across the state who provide unpaid care to family members, friends or loved ones.
Carers Queensland CEO Jim Toohey said carers were present in communities across the state, although their contribution could sometimes go unrecognised.
“National Carers Week is an important opportunity to recognise the incredible contribution unpaid carers make every day and to make sure they feel seen, valued and connected,” Toohey said.
He said the grants were intended to give local organisations the flexibility to develop activities suited to their communities.
“We want to support local organisations that know their communities and have great ideas for bringing carers together,” he said.
“It might be a simple morning tea, a creative activity or something completely different. What matters is creating a positive experience for carers.”
National Carers Week provides an annual opportunity to raise awareness of the different forms of unpaid care and acknowledge the role carers play while often balancing employment, study, family responsibilities and their own wellbeing.
Toohey encouraged organisations with ideas for local activities to submit an Expression of Interest.
“We know that connection matters, and sometimes a small opportunity to get together, try something new or simply be recognised can make a real difference,” he said.
Expressions of Interest for the Community Activity Grants are now open and close at 5pm on Friday, 11 September 2026.
Eligible organisations can apply for the $500 grant through Carers Queensland’s website. Activities supported through the program must take place during National Carers Week in October.
Carers Queensland is the peak body representing unpaid carers in Queensland. The organisation advocates for people who provide care to family members, friends and others in their communities, including people who may not identify themselves as carers.
The grants program forms part of the organisation’s broader work to increase recognition of unpaid carers and promote stronger community support for people in caring roles.
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