New grant program to support enhancements and community initiatives
Published on 17 July 2024
Rockhampton Regional Council, through its lead economic development agency, Advance Rockhampton, has released a new grant program to support Rockhampton’s food, dining, retail and business precincts in and around the CBD.
The Prosperous Precincts Grant Program will provide matched funding of up to $5,000 to deliver street and building improvements, community initiatives and activations.
The program is part of Council’s commitment to backing business and Rockhampton’s CBD and is designed to help drive visitors and patrons to the area.
Grants will be available under two streams:
- Modern Precincts Stream – with funding to support businesses and landowners to improve the appearance and patron experience of their property, enhance the streetscape appeal, attract patronage and stimulate the economy.
- Connected Precincts Stream – with funding to assist in the delivery of initiatives that provide community development outcomes, building a stronger link between the business community, visitors, and residents of the Region.
Grants are available to businesses, individuals, and community groups for projects delivered within the following precincts of Rockhampton’s CBD and its surrounds:
- Quay Street
- East Street
- Bolsover Street
- William Street
- Denham Street
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor, Tony Williams said Council knew the importance of Rockhampton’s CBD precincts and surrounds and the need to create interesting, inviting places for people to visit.
“We know that people drive economic activity and development, and that people want to visit precincts which are exciting and have lots of options and activity,” Mayor Williams said.
“That is what these grants do – they support local business to enhance their shopfronts and interiors and by doing so they improve the overall look and feel of our precincts.
“They will also help fund new community initiatives and events which will create vibrant public spaces, peaking people’s interest and encouraging people to gather in the CBD.
“We are committed to working with our local businesses and the community to deliver these grants and ensure that we are doing our part to drive economic development and activity.
“We’re backing business and backing our CBD because that’s what makes regions thrive.”
Economic Development Manager at Advance Rockhampton, Wade Clark, says the need to improve activations and the vibrancy of Rockhampton is a focus area for Advance Rockhampton.
“We want this program to benefit as many projects as possible, so I’d encourage anyone who is eligible to reach out to Advance Rockhampton to discuss how their idea can become a reality,” Mr Clark said.
Applications are now open.
Interested parties are encouraged to contact Advance Rockhampton to discuss their application before commencing works, by calling (07) 4936 8282 or emailing advancerockhampton@rrc.qld.gov.au.
Information on the Prosperous Precincts Grant Program, including eligibility, application process and funding conditions, can be found at https://advancerockhampton.com.au/precincts-grant.