The QBE Foundation has today opened applications for its 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 selection of high-impact community initiatives led by Australian organisations operating in Australia, New Zealand, or parts of the Pacific, helping them drive meaningful change in these critical areas.

“Through our grants program, QBE is proud to support organisations that are making a real impact in areas of need. We’ve seen how previous grant recipients have created meaningful change, and we’re excited to continue that momentum.

By supporting initiatives that enhance climate resilience and foster inclusivity, we’re helping to build stronger, more sustainable communities for the future,” said Julie Starley, QBE Foundation Co-Chair.

Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), one of last year’s grant recipients, has been supporting people on the autism spectrum since 1965, providing diagnostic assessments, therapy, support services, and autism-specific schooling.

Bríd Corrigan, National Manager Education Learning and Leadership at Aspect, said, “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people on the autism spectrum are among the most disadvantaged and marginalised communities, and we are committed to ensuring they receive the support they need to achieve their learning potential.”

The grant is helping Aspect embed cultural awareness training into its educational framework across three of its school sites – Thornton, Port Macquarie, and Terrigal. The training aims to boost inclusivity and ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives are meaningfully incorporated into autism education.

“This training is fundamental to fostering a culturally and disability-inclusive world,” said Corrigan.

“By equipping our educators with the right tools, we can ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and families receive the support they need in a way that respects their culture and learning styles.”

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

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

Applications will be accepted from 3 March (9am AEST) to 3 April 2025 (5pm AEST), with the recipients to be announced later this year, subject to change.

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