Community groups and not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) in affected regions are invited to apply for funding to reduce the impact of disasters and prepare for the future.

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As extreme weather events increase in frequency and severity, the Rebuilding Futures program offered by the Foundation of Rural Regional Renewal (FRRR) and Suncorp has strengthened its focus on supporting communities to be prepared and resilient.

This latest round of funding will provide grants across two funding streams for projects that can mitigate risks by adapting physical infrastructure, enhancing social connectedness or building the capacity of NFPs.

Stream 1 offers grants up to $20,000, with applications now open.

This funding is for locally-prioritised recovery or preparedness initiatives that build resilience through equipment or infrastructure, enhance the wellbeing and the mental health of communities; create stronger networks; or develop resources that share information and enhance understanding of disaster risk.

Nina O’Brien, FRRR’s Disaster Resilience and Recovery Lead, said the Foundation knows that many small, grassroots community groups struggle to access funding and expertise for projects that they know will help their community to prepare or recover, beyond the bricks and mortar.

“People often only see the physical damage from disaster events but it’s important to take a holistic approach to supporting community recovery through a balanced focus on strengthening both built and social infrastructure, which is critical to longer-term community wellbeing.

“These events take a huge emotional toll on the community. It can really knock people about.

“Resilient, functional and well-resourced community meeting places are a critical component of the complex community recovery process, and we are incredibly pleased to be working alongside Suncorp to help local community organisations be better prepared for the future.” Ms O’Brien said.

Suncorp Chief Executive Consumer Insurance, Lisa Harrison, said helping communities to build back better after disasters was crucial.

“We are proud to partner with FRRR to provide increased support to communities affected by disasters to recover faster and be better prepared for future extreme weather events,” Ms Harrison said.

“This funding is aimed at rebuilding essential community infrastructure, such as local meeting places, which are vital for fostering connection and growth within communities.

“This critical community infrastructure needs to be built to last, and it’s exciting to see significant advancements in technology and materials for mitigation infrastructure, which will greatly enhance our communities’ resilience to extreme weather.”

Applications close 5pm AEDT, 3 April 2025.

Funding will be awarded in June 2025.