QBE Foundation opens applications for $50,000 Australian Local Grants Program

The QBE Foundation has today opened applications for its 2026 Australian Local Grants Program, offering charities and community organisations working in both climate resilience and inclusion, the opportunity to receive a $50,000 grant.

These grants will support a range of high‑impact community initiatives delivered by Australian organisations working across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, helping drive meaningful change in these priority areas. 

“Our local grants program continues to highlight the incredible dedication and impact of organisations working at the heart of their communities. By supporting initiatives that enhance climate resilience and advance inclusion, we’re helping support positive change where it’s needed most. We’re excited to see the meaningful work and initiatives that emerge through this year’s applications.” said Chris Esson, QBE Foundation Co-Chair.

Deadly Science, one of last year’s grant recipients, is a leading Indigenous STEM community organisation, with a mission to create STEM equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learners. They provide science resources and education programs to over 800 regional and remote schools.

“We are using the grant to support our Deadly Weather initiative, a STEM education program blending First Nations seasonal knowledge with smart weather technology to engage remote Indigenous learners in climate science,” said Corey Tutt- Founder & CEO of Deadly Science.

By equipping educators and providing permanent kits, Deadly Weather delivers a scalable and sustainable program that, with support from the QBE Foundation’s grant, is helping drive meaningful progress in educational equity and climate resilience.

The QBE Foundation will be accepting applications across the following categories:

• Climate Resilience
• Inclusion
• QBE Employee Choice

For eligibility criteria and how to apply, please visit the QBE Foundation Local Grants webpage.

Interested organisations are invited to submit an expression of interest between 16 February 2026 (9am AEDT) and 16 March 2026 (5pm AEDT). Shortlisted organisations will then be invited to complete a full application, with grant recipients to be announced later in the year.

About the QBE Foundation

The Australia Pacific QBE Foundation is committed to creating strong, resilient, and inclusive communities across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific. We work in partnership with community organisations, with a focus on both climate resilience and inclusion – two areas where we believe we can have the greatest impact.

Find out more information on the QBE Foundation webpage.