Social enterprises are a community asset

Logan is fortunate to host several outstanding social enterprises, like Substation33. 

These are organisations that apply commercial strategies to maximize improvements in financial, social, and environmental well-being.

They provide meaningful employment for locals of all abilities. 

The Palaszczuk Government is supporting social enterprises like these with an $8 million fund for business support and expansion grants. 

The first round of the Social Enterprise Growth Grants saw recipients share in almost $900,000 to help their business grow or improve its social impact. 

The second funding round for 2022–23 is now open and offers grants between $5,000 and $25,000 to established social enterprises.

Funding is available for resources, or access business services, that will enable them to move to the next stage of growth.  

That includes production equipment, website development, digital equipment and strategic planning advice. 

Applications close on 27 April 2023. 

For more information on how to apply, please visit: https://desbt.qld.gov.au/training/future-skills-fund/social-enterprise-grants

I thank our social enterprises for their commitment to a diverse workforce and encourage all eligible candidates to apply for a round two grants. 

Meanwhile, more than three million tonnes of edible good food are sent to the tip each year. 

That is food that could better go to vulnerable Queenslanders.

The Palaszczuk Government has announced an additional $2.9 million through its Food Rescue Grant Program to help organisations across the state stop good food from ending up in landfill, and instead help Queenslanders in need.

The Government is supporting 10 food rescue projects across Queensland, providing close to six million meals for people in need and diverting nearly 3,000 tonnes of good food from landfill.

Organisations can use the funding to purchase or upgrade infrastructure and equipment as well as hire important staff to help collect and distribute food.

It adds to the $1.1 billion Recycling and Jobs Fund and the government’s goal to divert 80 per cent of material from landfill by 2030. 

It was great to see two Logan organisations receiving funding under Round Two of the Food Rescue Grant Program.

Twin Rivers Community Care, Rochedale South, will receive more than $486,000 to expand leased space at their Eagleby location to include more storage space and shop space. 

Fishers of Men, Logan, will receive more than $213,000 for a new food van with a pie warmer, and to employ staff. 

I congratulate both organisations on their success in this funding round and their commitment to supporting our community and protecting our environment.