The Local Buying Foundation was established in 2012 in Queensland, at the same time that the Local Buying Program was developed.
Our aim is to enhance the economic sustainability of regions within the operational footprint of BHP and BMA assets in Queensland. We do this through the support of programs and initiatives that target local business training and development needs.Â
The Local Buying Foundation is adding value to our local regional communities in the Mackay and Isaac regions across Queensland.
Below is a snapshot of the QLD data as at February 2025:
QLD Projects Funded
Funding approved $
QLD Funding Round Dates:
All Funding Rounds for 2025 are now finalised.
Round 1: closes February 7, 2025
Round 2: closes July 18, 2025
Please direct any out-of-round enquiries to info@localbuyingfoundation.com.au
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Supported regions in QLD:
The Local Buying Foundation in Queensland aims to enhance the economic stability in the local government areas of:
- Isaac
- Mackay
QLD Advisory Committee
To ensure that the Local Buying Foundation funding opportunities target genuine community needs, a Local Buying Foundation Advisory Committee has been established for each State.
The Advisory Committees are a representative body made up of key stakeholders from across the LBF regions with an interest or skills and expertise in regional economic development. The Committee provides guidance and market/environment intelligence to inform, identify and support and the investment and disbursement of the Foundation’s funds and to oversee effective governance of the Foundation.
The Advisory Committees ensure that approved projects, programs, and initiatives align with the Foundation’s objectives, meet specified criteria and have the appropriate due diligence.
Listed are the QLD Advisory Committee members appointed for 2024-2026.
Melissa Westcott | Local Buying Foundation Chair
Cynthia Harrison | BMA
BMA Procurement Representative
Jasmine Cadd | BMA
BMA Corporate Affairs Representative
Shane Brandenburg | Isaac Regional Council
Council/Local Government Representative
Joe Burns | Central Highlands Regional Council
Council/Local Government Representative
Deb Allan | Mackay Manufacturing Hub
Cross-Regional Industry Representative
Maree Sturdy | Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce
Business Chamber Representative
Bronwyn Reid | 4T Consulting
Independent
George Fitos | JETZ Contracting
Independent
Janice Wilson | Double Black Diamond Solutions
Independent
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Acknowledgement of Country
The Local Buying Foundation acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.