Grants & sponsorship
Council provides assistance in the form of cash and/or hiring of Council venues and resources to eligible community groups and organisations for cultural, social, sport, sustainability and economic development initiatives. Some arts & cultural grants are also available for individuals.
Note
- Limited funds are available through a competitive process.
- Applications are determined according to funding criteria and merit.
- Applicants must use the correct form and follow the grant guidelines.
- Applicants are to contact Council officers prior to submitting an application form. (Refer to grant information below for relevant contact details.)
- Submission of an application is not a guarantee of success.
- Before submitting an application, event organisers are responsible for confirming the venue, programming the event, obtaining all relevant quotes (including venue hire, labour, staffing, security and technical requirements) and securing all necessary permits, licences, insurances and other relevant approvals. This may include an Application for Temporary Entertainment Event ( PDF, 0.55 MB )
SmartySearch grant finder
SmartySearch is a free platform with access to a nationwide database of grants for not-for-profits, businesses, individuals, schools and more. This grant finder helps connect you to funding opportunities across the Cairns region and beyond.
Council grants
Council's grants are listed below. Refer to each grant for eligibility criteria and information on how to apply.
Community Partnerships
Arts and Cultural Assistance (Individual)
Arts and Cultural Assistance (Organisations)
Arts and Culture Partnerships (Community organisations)
Arts and Culture Partnerships (Individuals)
Councillors' Discretionary Funds (capital works)
Go Clubs Essentials
Go Clubs infrastructure Assistance Grant – Cairns Celebrates 150 Years
Industry and Economic Development Fund
Major Events Sponsorship
Nature-based Learning Grant
RADF Major Round
RADF Small Arts Grant
RADF Individual Professional Development Grant
RADF Flame.Arts Access – Leg Up Grants
Revegetation of Natural Areas
Sustainability and Climate Action Grant
Economic Event Partnerships
Major Events
Cairns Festival RADF Grant Round
Request for Proposals: Go Clubs Security Infrastructure Project 2026-27
Last Updated: 6 June 2025
Latest News > All News
New strategy for a more resilient Cairns
Today, Council endorsed the Cairns Social Resilience Strategy 2026–2030, establishing a framework to strengthen social resilience across the region and...
24 June 2026
Changes to Liquor Licensing Policy endorsed
Changes to the Liquor Licensing General Policy aim to strengthen Council’s consideration of requests for feedback into liquor and gaming...
24 June 2026
Council improves community safety
Cairns Regional Council has completed the installation of new CCTV infrastructure at four locations across the Cairns Local Government Area....
22 June 2026