Media Release:

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing and Minister for Regional and Rural Development

The Honourable Dale Last.

• Queensland manufacturers will benefit from a new $750,000 investment to accelerate artificial intelligence adoption.
• The trial program will help manufacturers implement AI projects that drive high-value transformation in their business. 
• The AI Uplift trial program will be open to expressions of interest from across the State, including from regional Queensland manufacturers. 
• The Crisafulli Government is delivering more jobs and better services through a stronger economy and reviving the State’s manufacturing industry. 

The Crisafulli Government is investing $750,000 to help Queensland manufacturers harness artificial intelligence (AI) and turn emerging technologies into real-world business outcomes in a rapidly changing global market. 

Delivered through the ARM Hub, the Queensland Manufacturing AI Uplift trial program will help eligible businesses identify and implement AI solutions to improve productivity, increase competitiveness and growth, and uplift workforce capability.  

The investment builds on the momentum of Queensland Manufacturing Month, which showcases the innovation, expertise and ambition driving the state’s manufacturing industry. 

Expressions of interest are now open for Queensland manufacturers seeking to implement artificial intelligence solutions through the ARM Hub’s Manufacturing AI Uplift program.  

It’s just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering more jobs and better services through a stronger economy after a decade of decline under Labor.    

Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said Queensland’s manufacturing industry was well placed to take advantage of the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence. 

“Queensland manufacturers are already leading in innovation, and this investment will help more businesses put AI to work on the factory floor,” Minister Last said. 

“We’re backing manufacturers that are ready to adopt AI to improve productivity, boost competitiveness and grow their businesses.  

“Queensland is home to many innovative manufacturers, and this program will help ensure they are part of the next wave of industrial innovation. 

“As we come to the end of Queensland manufacturing month, there’s no better time to back our manufacturers to embrace new technology, boost productivity and seize the opportunities ahead.”    

ARM Hub CEO Professor Cori Stewart said the program would give Queensland Manufacturers practical support to turn the potential of AI into measurable business outcomes.  

“Artificial Intelligence is already transforming advanced manufacturing globally, and this program is about making sure Queensland manufacturers have the capability and confidence to take advantage of that transformation,” Professor Stewart said.  

“For many manufacturers, the challenge isn’t understanding that AI presents an opportunity – it’s knowing where to start and how to apply it in a way that delivers genuine value to their business.   

“Through the AI uplift program, ARM Hub will work directly with manufacturers to identify practical applications for AI that can improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness and build workforce capability.”  

For more information on the expression of interest process go to: https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/manufacturing-retail/manufacturing/grant-programs/ai-uplift

Second round of the Crisafulli Government’s $79.1 million Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Grant Program now open to eligible businesses – closes 25/11/2026.

Media Release

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing and Minister for Regional and Rural Development, the Honourable Dale Last.

Almost $80 million in grants up for grabs for Queensland manufacturers!

Second round of the Crisafulli Government’s $79.1 million Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Grant Program now open to eligible businesses. Grants of up to $1.5 million in matched funding available with half earmarked for regional manufacturers.The Crisafulli Government is delivering better services through a stronger economy by creating more opportunities for industry to advance operations and create jobs after a decade of decline under Labor. 

Queensland Manufacturing Month is in full swing with businesses encouraged to apply for the latest round of the Crisafulli Government’s Transforming Queensland Manufacturing Grant Program. 

The $79.1 million program is being delivered over three years to help small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses supercharge innovation and take the next step towards advanced manufacturing.  

A total of $12.5 million is available in the second round, with eligible businesses able to apply for up to $1.5 million in matched funding.  

Importantly, at least half of the funding has been allocated to regional Queensland manufacturers. 

It’s just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering more jobs and better services through a stronger economy after a decade of decline under Labor.     

The program has already attracted strong interest from industry, with 119 manufacturers applying for funding in the first round. Of the 18 successful recipients, 11 are based in regional Queensland.  

The second round of grants will be opened this evening at the Queensland Manufacturing Month Showcase where innovative and advanced manufacturers from across the State are on display.  

Queensland’s manufacturers continue to shine throughout Queensland Manufacturing Month this September with regional events showcasing women in the industry and Manufacturing Hubs across the State hosting networking events for local manufacturers. 

Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said the grants were helping regional Queensland manufacturers embrace cutting-edge technologies and remain competitive in a global market. 

“The Crisafulli Government is backing regional manufacturers to grow, innovate and create more jobs in the communities they call home,” Minister Last said.  

“Unlike Labor, we know that Queensland doesn’t start and end in the south-east corner. 

“In the last round, more than 60 per cent of funding was awarded to regional Queensland manufacturers reflecting the quality of operations across our diverse State.  

“The first round of funding is supporting projects that are expected to create more than 300 new jobs and lead to the upskilling of more than 550 existing workers.   

“We know that when regional manufacturers succeed, so to do the towns and families that rely on them. 

“I encourage all eligible businesses to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to transform their operations and future-proof their success.” 

Allweld Manufacturing General Manager Josh Linwood said Queensland Manufacturing Month was an important opportunity for local manufacturers to take centre stage. 

“Queensland’s regional manufacturers have enormous potential, and it is encouraging to have a government that recognises the value of the sector and is backing businesses to grow, innovate and create more local jobs,” Mr Linwood said. 

“Queensland Manufacturing Month continues to deliver a range of events for regional manufacturers to grow their networks and work with government to innovate and identify pathways for professional development for women in the industry.  

“This is an opportunity to showcase what regional manufacturers do best, speak directly with government about the challenges and opportunities facing our businesses, and help shape the future growth of our industry. ”  

Applications close on 25 November 2026. For more information, or to apply, visit https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/manufacturing-retail/manufacturing/grant-programs/transforming  

Article courtesy of SB Online

The Kingaroy Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s September meet’n’greet was so popular that guests packed the KCCI’s Hub building in Kingaroy, spilling out into Kingaroy Street.

Almost 100 local businesspeople attended the event, which featured guest speakers from Tarong Power Station owners Stanwell – which is in the middle of a maintenance overhaul for generating Unit 3 –  and Golding, which took over operation of the Meandu coal mine earlier this year.

Stanwell site services manager Scott Tucker said the 11-week Unit 3 outage started on August 21 and was expected to end on November 6.

Planning for the shutdown started about 18 months ago.

Mr Tucker said about $62.5 million would be spent on Unit 3 over the 11 weeks as well as another $30 million on other projects at the same time.

About 500 extra personnel had come to site, including tradespeople and technical support; and about 50 contractors and suppliers had been engaged.

Some other statistics from the outage:

• About 200,000 hours of work
• About 600 tonnes of scaffolding erected
• 3 tonnes of welding materials
• 300sq m of replacement steel plate
• About 2km of replacement angle bar, flat bar and channel steel

Mr Tucker said local engineering firms and workshops had been involved, as well as supplying supplementary labour for regular maintenance.

Other local businesses to benefit included buses, other transportation and crane hire.

An estimated $3.3 million had been budgeted for accommodation and another $3.2m for meal allowances etc.

Bakery supplies were also sourced locally and South Burnett CTC’s The Gumnut Place had received a 50 per cent boost in its laundry business.

Stanwell acting general manager of mining operations Anthony Goodger said Meandu Mine was the sole supplier to the Tarong power stations, delivering between 4.8 million tonnes and 6 million tonnes of coal.

He said about 30 million cubic metres of dirt were removed every year.

Mining has now begun in the King 2 East extension.

Golding began as the mine operator on July 1 this year.

Acting Inspector Scott Prendergast updated KCCI members on “Operation Tutela“, the Crime Stoppers program launched in Kingaroy in June this year.

He said police relied on “eyes on the street” and since Operation Tutela had been promoted, calls to Crime Stoppers had increased 52 per cent.

Other highlights from the meet’n’greet:

• The KCCI Golf Day raised about $13, 300 to support the SMILE program
• KCCI membership renewals will come due on October 1
• The next KCCI meet’n’greet will be hosted by South Burnett CTC and Favier Building Industries at the new CTC Youth Park buildings
• Expressions of interest are invited by KCCI members to join the Executive Committee; the KCCI AGM will be held on November 17

Click HERE for the full article and images.

Defence Industry Development Grants (DIDG) **Extended

The program provides funding for small to medium enterprises to build Australia’s sovereign capability, global competitiveness, technical superiority and national security. The Grant opportunity provides:

• between $100,000 and $1 million for eligible businesses
• up to 50% of the project cost

Stream closing dates

• Exports stream – Saturday 31 October 2026, 11:59 pm AEDT
• Security stream – Saturday 31 October 2026, 11:59 pm AEDT
• Skilling stream – Wednesday 30 September 2026, 11:59 pm AEST
• Sovereign Industrial Priorities stream – Monday 30 November 2026, 11:59 pm AEDT

Fact Sheet: Defence Industry Development Grants

Regional University Industry Collaboration Program

RUIC connects Queensland businesses with regional universities, including QDSA member universities James Cook University, University of the Sunshine Coast, and University of Southern Queensland, to help solve technical challenges, accelerate R&D and commercialise new ideas.

Eligible SMEs can access:

• Up to $50,000 in matched funding
• Research expertise and project support
• Networking and collaboration opportunities
• Free R&D training
• Applications are open year-round

To connect with our member universities involved in RUIC, contact info@qdsa.au

Find out more

Accelerator Program Providers

Accelerator Program Providers – a Queensland Government program managed by Queensland Investment Corporation, which seeks to accelerate, develop and enhance the venture capital industry in Queensland.

SME Industrial Decarbonisation Fund

The SME Industrial Decarbonisation Fund has been designed to help small-to-medium sized Australian manufacturers reduce their direct greenhouse gas emissions by switching from fossil fuel powered processes to electric alternatives.

The Fund supports businesses through co-investment to upgrade or replace equipment and processes, train their workforce, attain updated certification or compliance and share successful deployment across the manufacturing industry through knowledge sharing activities.

The Fund has three focus areas – Surface Treatment, Process Steam and Metals Processing – and Projects must clearly demonstrate a pathway to achieving commercial viability and the ability to deliver a measurable reduction in emissions.

• Eligible project size: $400k – $1M
• Applications close 31 December 2027 or when fully allocated
• Find out more

Concessions on goods for space projects

Space Concession helps companies wanting to develop high technology for the space sector. It encourages the transfer of technology and expertise by providing duty-free tariff on eligible imported goods.

• You can apply at any time
• Find out more

National Reconstruction Fund

The National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRFC) provides debt finance, equity finance and guarantees for businesses with compelling proposals in one of the seven priority areas, including defence capabilities. The NRFC may invest in proposals that are solely or mainly Australian-based. Applicants must:

• demonstrate a positive return on investment or an ability to repay debt
• have completed Australian Industry Participation Plan.

Find out more

Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ)

A $2,000 Skills and workforce subsidy for manufacturers provides small manufacturers access to specialist support to implement their workforce strategies.

From now until 30 November 2026,the subsidy is available to small manufacturing businesses across Queensland who have completed a workforce plan through the MSQ Industry Workforce Advisor Program.

CSIRO Kick-Start

Matched funding between $10,000 and $50,000 for start-ups and small business to access CSIRO support to undertake research activities that will enable your business to:

• research a new idea with commercial potential
• develop a novel or improved product or process
• test a novel product or material
• Maximum length of project – 12 months
• Apply anytime
• Find out more

MBSE and Digital Twin training – MEMKO, in collaboration with iLAuNCH, offers Digital Engineering Micro-Credentials for Industry.

These courses will run in‑person at the UniSQ Springfield campus and online, giving learners flexible access to industry‑built MBSE and Digital Twin training. Whether you’re upskilling individually or developing teams across aerospace, defence, space or advanced manufacturing – this is your opportunity to gain practical, industry‑validated digital engineering capability.

• MBSE Fundamentals for Systems Engineering | Micro credential I MEMKO (4 contact days – in-person)
• Introduction to Digital Twin | Micro credential | MEMKO (24 contact hours – online)

Defence and Strategic Exports

Visit Defence’s Outreach and training page to explore upcoming Defence Export Controls webinars.

Defence Trailblazer

Combat Systems Engineering Micro credentials Find out more

Australian Submarine Agency Industry Uplift Programs

Defence Industry Vendor Qualification program, Australian Submarine Supplier Qualification Progra, ASC BAE Supply Chain Qualification Program ,Accelerating pre-qualification, Defence Industry Factsheet

ARM Hub

Accelerator Programs are designed to drive sovereign capability, commercial readiness, and global competitiveness, particularly in sectors where transformation is critical to Australia’s economic resilience including Biomedical, Veteran and Female Founders.

Subscribe to the ARM Hub newsletter here.

The University of the Sunshine Coast delivers micro-credential courses, funded by the Queensland Government, to upskill Queensland’s small and family businesses. Register your interest in an available business planning course.

New courses are being developed – register your interest for when they become available:

• artificial intelligence
• cyber security
• procurement.

TAFE – Certificate IV in Leadership and Management – 2027 – EOI

Delivered through Toowoomba Manufacturing Hub

Starting Date – April 2027

Toowoomba Manufacturing Leadership Program – BSB40520 – Certificate IV in Leadership and Management

What’s included:

• 6-month program
• 1 x day per month face to face workshop
• Empower your leadership skills unlocking growth, innovation and lasting success

Please register your interest by Friday, 25 September 2026, if you are interested or have employees that are interested in attending the Certificate IV Leadership and Management.

Article courtesy of SBFCS

Business tip:

Every business has its slow season. Whether you operate a retail shop with slowing trade during the summer season, a builder who battles wet weather delays or a service station that experiences a decrease in trade during the low tourist season. These quiet periods can put a strain on your cash flow and leave you in a panic – especially if you haven’t planned ahead.

Key Items:

• Work on your business plan
• Attend training or learn new skills
• Look at ways that you can grow your business

Read the full article HERE!

Wiedens Bridge on Kingaroy-Burrandowan Road – Temporary Closure

Weidens Bridge will be closed to all traffic from Tuesday 15 September to Friday 25 September 2026.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) advises that Wiedens Bridge, which crosses the Boyne River on Kingaroy–Burrandowan Road at Chahpingah, will be temporarily closed to all traffic to allow for essential repairs and maintenance works to be undertaken. Excavation works are required around the bridge abutment to enable replacement of key structural components supporting the bridge.

Closure details:

• Weidens Bridge will be closed to all traffic from Tuesday 15 September to Friday 25 September 2026 (including weekends), weather and construction conditions permitting. 
• During the closure, on-road signage will guide motorists to use detour routes via Chinchilla Wondai Road and the Bunya Highway. Local council roads will remain open during this time.
• Access for emergency services will be maintained at all times.

The works are necessary to maintain the ongoing safety and serviceability of the Wiedens Bridge, ensuring it remains reliable for the local community and all road users.

Road users should allow additional time for their journey while the closure is in place.

For real-time traffic updates and to plan ahead, visit www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au or download the QLDTraffic App.

TMR thanks motorists for their patience and understanding while these important works are completed.

We encourage you to share this information with others that may be interested in, or affected by, the works.

If you have any questions, please contact bundaberg.office@tmr.qld.gov.au

Rural Financial Counselling Service Southern Qld

GET AHEAD OF IT: How a bank views your farm

Walking into a bank meeting without knowing what lenders are actually looking for can leave even the most established operations feeling on the back foot. The Rural Financial Counselling Service Southern Queensland is inviting primary producers to join Get Ahead of It webinar host Warren Ryan, alongside Rural Financial Counsellors (RFCs) Ian Swanborough and Leonie Brassey, as they share their extensive backgrounds in agribusiness banking and discuss how banks really assess your cash flow, debt, and serviceability.

RFC Ian Swanborough says that having a confidential chat can add a lot of value to your bank visit.

‘Having a private chat with someone you can trust is something really valued by primary producers.

‘The chance to open up to with an impartial, experienced and compassionate listener that understands rural life and is part of the community opens possibilities and can help a farmer get on the front foot ahead of that important bank meeting’, he said.

Rural Financial Counsellors have had these quiet conversations for decades. They are locals who understand both the passion and the pressure to perform felt by primary producers. That’s just one of the many reasons the Rural Financial Counselling Service Southern Queensland is encouraging primary producers to listen in to the next instalment of Get Ahead of It: Practical conversations for primary producers where we discuss how a bank views your farm.

This episode will not only strengthen your knowledge of what lenders flag as high risk, but it will also prepare primary producers for the difficult conversations with their banks.

Read the full media release attached, or online and head to www.getaheadofit.org.au to register for the free upcoming webinar.

Department of Trade, Employment and Training

Applications are now open for Round 2, 2026-27 of the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.
 
Skilling Queenslanders for Work provides funding to support training and employment opportunities for Queenslanders facing barriers to workforce participation. Community organisations interested in delivering training and employment projects are encouraged to explore the funding opportunity and available support resources.

Skilling Queenslanders for Work
Round 2, 2026–27

Applications are now open for Round 2, 2026-27 of the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.
 
Skilling Queenslanders for Work provides funding to support training and employment opportunities for Queenslanders facing barriers to workforce participation. Community organisations interested in delivering training and employment projects are encouraged to explore the funding opportunity and available support resources.

Key Dates:

Applications open: 31 August 2026

Applications close: 22 October 2026

Learn More About Skilling Queenslanders for Work
Information on funding priorities, eligibility requirements and the application process is available through the QCOSS Skilling Queenslanders for Work Information Session resources.
 
An introduction to Skilling Queenslanders for Work

Strengthen Your Funding Application
QCOSS offers webinars, face-to-face workshops and practical resources to help organisations build tender writing capability and develop competitive funding applications.
 
Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) – QCOSS

QCOSS Face-to-Face Tender Writing Workshop

Date: Thursday 17 September 2026
Time: 12.30 pm to 3.00 pm
Location: Department of Trade, Employment and Training, Level 2, 145 Herries Street, Toowoomba

If you experience any difficulties registering for the QCOSS Face-to-Face Tender Writing Workshop, please contact the team at ddsw@dtet.qld.gov.au.

 If your organisation is considering applying for Skilling Queenslanders for Work funding, we encourage you to contact our office on 1800 210 210.
 
Our team can provide advice on eligibility requirements, discuss project concepts, and help ensure proposals align with community need, regional priorities and Skilling Queenslanders for Work objectives.
 
Alternatively, register your interest via this link and a regional officer will contact you to arrange a one-on-one discussion.
 
 

Regional Contact
Tylee Neideck, A/Manager
Ph: 0477 384 267 Email: tylee.neideck@dtet.qld.gov.au

Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning has a practical capability program designed to help Queensland businesses strengthen their investment readiness, attract capital and accelerate growth.

Build the knowledge, tools and confidence to move from ambition to investment-ready. Whether you’re planning to raise capital in the near future or simply want to understand how investors assess businesses, this program will provide practical guidance from experienced advisers and investment specialists.

View this link Investment Ready Queensland – BDO

The future isn’t always certain. But every step forward can open new possibilities. Whether you’re looking to grow in your current role, change direction, or build new skills for an evolving workforce, TAFE Queensland can help you take the next step with confidence.

Quality training for less:

Quickly and easily find out which available government subsidies could help reduce the cost of your training with our subsidy calculator. Study your way
Fit learning around your life with flexible study options including part time, online and micro-credentials. Skills for a changing world
The world of work is changing fast. Our practical, industry-aligned qualifications help you stay adaptable, discover new opportunities, and prepare for what’s next.

Scholarship support for your next chapter:

Big goals deserve great support. That’s why TAFE Queensland is awarding 100 scholarships worth $5,000 each for Semester 1, 2027. Put the funding towards your study expenses and focus on building the future you’ve been working towards.

Applications for our October intake are now open. When you’re ready to take the next step towards your goals, we’re here to help you move forward.