What’s Happening?
Applications are now open for the 2027-28 Active Transport Grants Program, with $15 million available to help councils deliver walking and bike riding infrastructure across Queensland.
The program supports practical projects that improve safety, connectivity and access within local communities.
Projects can help connect residents with schools, community facilities, public transport and other local destinations.
Why It Matters
The program gives councils another funding option for active transport projects based on local needs, that could support future walking and bike riding links that make local trips safer and more direct.
The Queensland Government said councils were well placed to identify projects offering the greatest benefits for residents.
Acting Minister for Transport and Main Roads Tim Mander said the funding was aimed at practical local infrastructure.
“The Crisafulli Government is delivering the infrastructure needed for a growing Queensland and funding practical projects that make it safer and easier for people to move around their communities,” Minister Mander said. “The projects funded through the last round will improve safety, strengthen local connections and help more Queenslanders access schools, community facilities, public transport and local businesses. We’re investing another $15 million because we know local councils understand their communities best and can identify the projects that will deliver the greatest benefits for local residents.”
“As Queensland continues to grow and we look towards 2032 and beyond, we’re ensuring communities right across the state have the infrastructure they need today while planning for the future.”
Local Impact
Mackay Regional Council was one of 10 councils funded through the 2026-27 program. Its successful project was the Milton and Henman Street shared path.
That result gives Mackay recent experience with the program as council considers whether to seek funding again.
By The Numbers
- 10 projects received funding across Queensland through the 2026-27 round, including Mackay’s Milton and Henman Street shared path.
- 30 November 2026 is the closing date for councils seeking funding through the 2027-28 program.
- 2027 is when successful projects are expected to be announced following the application and assessment process.
Zoom In
The grants are designed to let local governments identify projects that respond to community transport needs.
Eligible proposals can focus on safer walking and bike riding links, better access and stronger connections between local destinations.
For Mackay, any new application would need to meet the program’s requirements before being considered for funding.
Zoom Out
The other councils funded through the 2026-27 round were:
- Cairns Regional Council: Ryan Weare Park to Redlynch Striker United Football Club shared path.
- Cassowary Coast Regional Council: McGowan Drive shared path improvements.
- Central Highlands Regional Council: Max Gorlick Drive shared pathway in Emerald.
- Ipswich City Council: Bremer Street shared path upgrade.
- Logan City Council: Armstrong Road active transport improvements.
- Longreach Regional Council: Galah Street pathway connection.
- Noosa Shire Council: Goodchap Street active transport facilities.
- Rockhampton Regional Council: Graeme Acton Way shared path.
- Sunshine Coast Regional Council: Palm Drive, Ocean View Avenue and Meta Street pathway project.
The wider program aims to improve connections between communities, schools, public transport hubs and key local destinations.
What To Look For Next?
Applications remain open until 30 November 2026, giving Mackay Regional Council time to consider another projects for the new funding round.
Successful projects are expected to be announced in 2027.
