Regional Economic Futures Fund

The $200 million Regional Economic Futures Fund (REFF) is helping Queensland regions seize new-industry development opportunities presented by global decarbonisation.

Funded regions

The regions identified for funding have communities with coal-fired power stations and associated mines that are a significant source of economic activity and jobs. They present unique opportunities to support new industries like critical minerals, renewable energy, hydrogen and biofuels:

• North-West Queensland (including the corridor to Townsville)
• Greater Whitsunday
• Central Queensland
• Darling Downs South West and the South Burnett.

Regional transformation strategies guide each region, identifying key economic strengths and industry priorities.

Stakeholder Advisory Committees (SACs)—consisting of representatives from each region’s government agencies, industries and communities—informed and developed these strategies following extensive public consultation.

Funded projects

In addition to endorsing more than 50 Queensland Government and council-led projects across the 4 regions, applications are progressing for projects led by peak bodies, universities and the private sector.

The Queensland Government has announced newly approved projects under the REFF (PDF, 136.71 KB).

In September 2024, further approved projects (PDF, 116.65 KB) have been announced.

Community initiatives under the renewable energy zone readiness assessments are receiving the remaining funding.

Learn more

The Department of Energy and Climate is delivering the REFF in partnership with the Department of State Development and Infrastructure (DSDI).

For more information, contact a DSDI local regional office.

North West Queensland region
P: (07) 4747 3900
E: nwq@dsdilgp.qld.gov.au

Greater Whitsunday region
P: (07) 4898 6800
E: mackay@dsdilgp.qld.gov.au

Central Queensland region
P: (07) 4924 2919
E: CentralQueensland@dsdilgp.qld.gov.au

Darling Downs South West region
P: (07) 4616 7306
E: Toowoomba@dsdilgp.qld.gov.au

Bundaberg Burnett region
P: (07) 4331 5616
E: wbbregionalservices@dsdilgp.qld.gov.au

To find out about regional economic transformation opportunities and decarbonisation, visit the Local Economic Opportunities (LEO) Network.