QUEENLAND’S 2026 FUNDING ROUND 1 IS NOW CLOSED
Email your local Project Officer Kirsty if you require assistance for applications out of Funding Round and further information.

kirsty@localbuyingfoundation.com.au

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. 

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 Queensland data as at March 2026:

Qld Projects Funded

Funding approved $

Stories that connect women across Isaac

Hosted by the Isaac Chamber, this event provided an opportunity for women from business, community and caring roles to come together in a shared space centred on listening, reflection and connection.

Strengthening Regional Women Leaders

The RIN International Women’s Day Luncheon continues to play an important role in recognising the contribution of women across business, industry and regional communities.

Empowering Safety and Inclusion: LBF Sponsorship for RIN’s 2026 Initiatives

Resource Industry Network initiatives 2026: the International Women’s Day and the annual Safety Conference, projects designed to foster diversity, inclusion and safety

Driving Regional Innovation: Greater Whitsunday Innovation to Deliver AI Workshops and May 2026 Summit

Greater Whitsunday Innovation (GWI) empowers local businesses and community organisations across the region.

Strengthening Regional Capability Through Strategic IREP Business Development

Isaac Resource Excellence Precinct (IREP) will strengthen the region’s business ecosystem by fostering collaboration, innovation, and capability development.

Qld Funding Round Dates:

All Funding Rounds for 2026 are now finalised.

Round 1: closed February 6, 2026
Round 2: closes July 17, 2026

Please direct any out-of-round enquiries to info@localbuyingfoundation.com.au

 

 

Local Buying Foundation Supported Regions QLD

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 Queensland Advisory Committee members appointed for 2026-2028.

Melissa Westcott | Local Buying Foundation Chair

Cynthia Harrison | BMA
BMA Procurement Representative

Jasmine Cadd | BMA
BMA Corporate Affairs Representative

Leah Scheepers | BMA
BMA Corporate Affairs Representative

 

 

 

 

 

 

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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.