What’s happening?
Five charities across Central and North Queensland will share in more than $48,000 through the 2025 Queensland Gives Regional Fund. One of the major recipients is Southern Cross Kids’ Camps, which will receive $13,500 to launch a new initiative in Mackay called Hope in the heart of Mackay.
The Regional Fund is part of Queensland Gives’ largest ever distribution — a record $570,000 across 51 regional charities — with all funds sourced from Queenslanders investing in their state’s long-term wellbeing.
Why it matters
This funding helps local charities continue their behind-the-scenes work and roll out programs that support children, families, and communities. Southern Cross Kids’ Camps brings hope to children who have experienced trauma, neglect, or abuse, and this new Mackay program will expand that reach.
Queensland Gives CEO Tara Castle said, “We are so pleased to be able to keep giving to local charities, so they can continue their incredibly important work supporting those in need throughout this vast region.”
“Every dollar we provide goes directly to keeping the ‘behind-the-scenes’ work on track, so local outreach and support programs can roll out seamlessly,” she said.
“I’m particularly pleased about the broad range of organisations that will receive support under this round to keep forging ahead with the great work they do in building stronger, healthier and happier communities.”
Local Impact
Southern Cross Kids’ Camps’ Mackay initiative will bring emotional support and resilience-building experiences to vulnerable children. The program offers a safe and nurturing space where young people can grow in confidence and hope.
This investment will allow the camp to operate locally for the first time, strengthening Mackay’s ability to provide trauma-informed care through community-based support.
By the numbers:
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$570,000 distributed to 51 charities in Central and North Queensland in 2025
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$13,500 allocated to launch the new Southern Cross Kids’ Camp in Mackay
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$5.7 million to be distributed by Queensland Gives across Queensland charities this financial year
Zoom In
Other recipients in this round include:
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DV Safe Phone – $7,500 to run its HELP, HOPE, CHANGE! campaign during Sexual Violence Awareness Month
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LiteHaus International Ltd – $13,505.55 for a Digital Inclusion Program
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The Historical Society Cairns North Queensland Inc – $3,500 to support its Volunteer Assistance Program
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Uniforms 4 Kids Limited – $9,165 to continue running its Volunteer Sewing Group
Ms Castle noted, “All donations to Queensland Gives – large or small – have long-term benefits for charities throughout the state, and all donations over $2 are tax deductible.”
Zoom Out
Queensland Gives is the public name of the Queensland Community Foundation. Established in 1997 by former Queensland Premier Mike Ahern AO with just $300,000 in seed funding, the trust has now grown to $151 million.
Donations to Queensland Gives are pooled and invested, with income earned distributed to Queensland charities every year — forever. It includes 262 sub funds and a General Fund supported by individuals, charities, corporations, and government agencies.
“The unique structure and purpose of Queensland Gives allows us to be a secure, growing, permanent and perpetual source of funding for charities,” Ms Castle said. “It gives them the ongoing security of knowing they can continue to fund their community-focused programs.”
“In effect, anyone who donates to Queensland Gives is giving to Queenslanders for generations to come.”
Queensland Gives is proudly sponsored by QIC and Anglo American.
What to look for next?
Southern Cross Kids’ Camps will begin preparing for its first Mackay program rollout. This new camp will offer volunteering opportunities and community involvement. Meanwhile, Queensland Gives will continue distributing $5.7 million across 300 Queensland charities this financial year.
