Council providing $8.9 million for community support
Published on 17 June 2026
- $8.92 million in grants, concessions and support programs available in 2026/27.
- Nine community support policies adopted following their annual review.
- Support includes grants, pensioner concessions, hardship assistance, community group concessions and environmental incentives.
Fraser Coast residents, community groups and pensioners will benefit from $8.92 million in grants, concessions and support programs after Council adopted a suite of community support policies for 2026/27.
Communities spokesman Cr Phil Truscott said the policies formed an important part of Council's commitment to supporting the community while maintaining long-term financial sustainability.
“While local government budgets are often associated with roads, parks and infrastructure, they also include significant support programs that directly benefit people across our region," he said.
“In 2026/27, Council will provide $8.92 million in grants, pensioner concessions, community group support, hardship assistance and environmental incentives that will help make a real difference in the lives of Fraser Coast residents.
“These policies help ensure support is available where it is needed most while recognising the valuable contribution community organisations and volunteers make to the Fraser Coast.”
Cr Truscott said the policies covered a broad range of support measures.
“Our Community Grants Program helps local organisations deliver projects, events and initiatives that strengthen our community," he said.
“We also provide rates concessions to pensioners and community groups, residents experiencing financial hardship, and landowners helping protect important environmental areas.
“Other policies provide assistance for residents facing unexpected water costs due to circumstances such as concealed leaks, medical treatment requirements or natural disasters, while waste management concessions help encourage sustainable waste practices.”
Cr Truscott said the annual review process ensured the policies remained current and responsive to community needs.
“Most of the policies remain largely unchanged because they continue to work well and provide important support to the community," he said.
“The annual review process gives us an opportunity to ensure these programs remain relevant, effective and aligned with community needs.”
The adopted policies include a new wastewater concession to assist eligible property owners who have recently invested in compliant on-site sewerage systems and are later serviceable by an expansion to the wastewater network.
The policies were adopted by Council at its meeting today (17 June 2026) following their annual review and will help guide the delivery of Council's community support programs and concessions during the 2026/27 financial year.