Toowoomba Social Enterprise Ability Enterprises has been recognised as a recipient of the Qantas Regional Grants program announced this week in a huge boost to not for profit groups across Australia.
Ability Enterprises is one of 32 groups from around the country that will receive a share of the $2 million as the flying kangaroo boosts its commitment to regional Australia.
“We are delighted to be selected from such a worthy group of recipients, not to mention excited for the possibilities this grant will allow us to deliver in line with our values and our mission” Ability Board Chair Phil Gregory said.
The Qantas Regional Grants program is providing $10 million in grants over five years – $2 million each year – to support not-for-profit groups and projects directly benefitting regional Australia.
The 2023 grant recipients were selected from a record 1600 applications from every state and territory, almost 40 per cent more than when the program first launched. Each organisation selected will receive a combination of flights, cash, and marketing support.
Ability Enterprises CEO Claire Torkington is elated that Qantas recognised Ability and the work we do providing meaningful employment to vulnerable people with our community. “This is such great news for us” Ms Torkington said “The grant funds will be used to purchase equipment for our plastics recycling program, in particular our colour sorting line. The project is close to commencement here at our premises in Toowoomba and it will provide an important pathway to multiple new jobs for locals, particularly those facing barriers to employment”.
Of the 32 successful grant recipients, 10 are based in New South Wales, which had the most applications from any state or territory. Queensland, Victoria, and Northern Territory have five grant winners each. Western Australia had four and South Australia, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory had one.
“We applaud the community spirit of Australia’s flagship airline, and we will ensure this support from Qantas is used to create lasting benefits, and importantly to give a hand up to those most in need through employment” Ability Board Chair Phil Gregory said.
