Community Benefits
Queensland Hydro is committed to delivering lasting benefits for the communities where we operate.
Community Grants Program
Our Community Grants Program supports initiatives that deliver lasting benefits for communities around the proposed Borumba Pumped Hydro Project.
Funding of up to $10,000 (ex GST) is available for community-led initiatives that strengthen health and wellbeing, boost tourism and economy, support environmental sustainability or build community connection.
Eligible applicants include community groups, community clubs and not-for-profit organisations located in the Gympie and Somerset Local Government Areas. Priority consideration will be given to communities closest to the Borumba Project, particularly those in and around Kilcoy, Jimna, Imbil and the surrounding Mary Valley.
Applications are assessed by our Community Benefits Panel – eight local community representatives – who help identify community priorities and provide recommendations to Queensland Hydro. This ensures the program is guided by community, for the community.
Applications are open from Tuesday 3 February to Monday 2 March 2026.
Community Grant Program information sessions
Want to learn more about the Community Grants Program? Register now to attend one of our upcoming information sessions. Our team will explain the program in detail, outline the type of information we are seeking in applications, and answer any questions you may have.
Imbil: Tuesday 10 February 2026
Kilcoy: Wednesday 11 February 2026
Community Event Sponsorship Program
Our Community Event Sponsorship program supports local, community-led events near the proposed Borumba Project.
Sponsorship of up to $5,000 (ex GST) is available for events that strengthen community connection, boost tourism and the economy, promote STEM education, improve health, safety and wellbeing, or support environment and sustainability.
Applications are open year-round for events scheduled up until the end of 2026. Applications must be submitted at least three months before funding being required.
Funding is limited and will be considered and prioritised on a case-by-case basis for events that best meet the program criteria.
Before applying, please read the program guidelines for details on eligibility, assessment, and the application process.
Have a question?
Our team welcomes any questions and is happy to assist community representatives with the application process. To contact our engagement team please email borumba@qldhydro.com.au or call us on 1800 433 939.
Education
Bringing our project to life requires a skilled workforce, and at Queensland Hydro we are committed to creating pathways and incentives that build local capability.
We are investing in the next generation of workers by providing scholarships, bursaries and hands-on opportunities for young people in our project regions.
So far we have supported initiatives such as:
- TAFE Queensland Foundation – scholarships for local students pursuing STEM-related training pathways.
- University of Sunshine Coast – scholarships and bursaries for local engineering students.
- James Nash High School and Gympie State High School – scholarships for local Year 11 and 12 studying STEM subjects.
- Community engagement activities – including participation in events like the Gympie Science and Engineer Challenge, where students gain practical engineering experience, strengthen critical thinking skills and explore real-world solutions.
As our project progresses, we will continue to expand opportunities that support education and training outcomes across the regions where we operate.
