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Council tenders and procurement
Current opportunities to tender for Cairns Regional Council work and procurement opportunities are listed below.
Lease and Operation of Cairns Community and Multicultural Centre
Council is inviting tender submissions to provide high quality service, management and maintenance of the still to be constructed Cairns Community and Multicultural Centre in White Rock. Closes 4.30pm, 29 August 2025Disposal of Bellenden Ker Hall
Cairns Regional Council is inviting written offers for the purchase of the Bellenden Ker Memorial Hall including building and associated land, located at 78R Harvey Creek Road, Bellenden Ker. Closes 4.30pm, 17 September 2025
Workshops, training and industry events
Shape Your Future Workforce
Join the Cairns Regional Jobs Committee for the official launch of two valuable new resources designed to help local businesses connect with emerging talent and build a stronger, more sustainable workforce.
When: 5 September, 7.30am - 9.00am
Where: The Pullman Cairns International Hotel
Cost: $20 | Register Here
Cultural Awareness Handbook launch event
The Cairns Regional Jobs Committee, in partnership with the Cairns Chamber of Commerce, will launch a Cultural Awareness Handbook for business. This practical guide supports employers to build inclusive, culturally aware workplaces across the region, helping them confidently
hire, onboard and retain diverse employees.
When: 17 September, 5.00pm - 7.00pm
Where: The Backyard at Shangri-La, Cairns
Cost: $10 | Register Here
Grants and business support
Workforce Evolve: Online workshop series
Seven weekly 90-minute sessions with experts on workforce design, frontline management, change management and employment essentials.
18 August - 29 September | Free
Find out more
Engaging Science Grants
Up to $25,000 for projects that promote STEM careers, boost science literacy and encourage hands-on participation—especially linking STEM with nature-based tourism.
Closes 22 September 2025, 4pm.
Find out more
Small Business Recovery Assistance Grant Program
Up to $15,000 for eligible small businesses in North and Far North Queensland severely impacted by the tropical low between 29 January and 28 February 2025.
Closes 14 May 2026, 5pm.
Find out more
Tourism Business Digital Adaptation Program
Boost your business with up to $2,500 for digital tools like booking systems and social media management, plus free support to enhance your digital reach.
Find out more
Mentoring for Growth Program
Free access to volunteer business experts offering tailored advice to address challenges and explore opportunities.
Find out more
Workforce Evolve: Help to grow your business
Free support for Queensland employers to build a diverse, inclusive workforce through online modules and coaching. Learn how to attract and retain top talent - now and for the future.
Find out more
Council news in brief
Cairns rates among Queensland’s best value
The data’s in - Independent benchmarking shows Cairns residents enjoy some of the lowest rates and utility charges statewide, while still funding vital infrastructure and community upgrades.
Backing local business growth
Council has reaffirmed its support for local business by signing a renewed Small Business Friendly Commitment. Over the past year, initiatives under the program have cut red tape, supported major events, and increased local supplier opportunities. These efforts are helping small businesses thrive in our region.
Hawthorn’s Northern Nest returns to Cairns
Cairns will once again host elite women’s footy as Hawthorn takes on St Kilda in Round 4 of the 2025 NAB AFLW season at Cazalys Stadium on Saturday 6 September at 7:15pm.
Part of the league’s Indigenous Round, this high-profile match is set to boost visitation and economic outcomes for the region, deliver national exposure and foster community pride, aligning with the Cairns & Great Barrier Reef Major Events Strategy.
Event details and tickets
Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival returns
Cyclists from across Australia and overseas will join this three-day festival of scenic, non-competitive rides along the iconic Great Barrier Reef Drive. The event, held 12-14 September, boosts visitation and reinforces Tropical North Queensland’s reputation as a leading sports tourism destination.
Maximise opportunities for cheaper and cleaner energy
The Energy Advantage
11 September 2025, 9:00am - 11:00am
Civic Reception Room, Cairns Regional Council and Online via Teams
119-145 Spence Street, Cairns
Disability friendly. Lunch provided
Learn how your business can:
- Take advantage of more renewable energy in the electricity grid
- Attract large customers by being carbon ready
- Identify options for cleaner and cheaper electricity supply
- Hear from a local business which has transitioned to renewable energy and electric vehicles
Cairns Regional Council has developed this content with the assistance of funding from the Queensland Government.
Get Tickets here
Celebrate Cairns 150 in your own way
Cairns is turning 150 in 2026! Whether you're a school, community group or business marking a milestone, opening a time capsule, or hosting an event or performance, we’d love to hear about it. Your celebrations will be part of the city’s story and help bring our 150th anniversary to life. Every activity, big or small, adds to the festivities. Let us know how you’ll be celebrating Cairns’ 150th. Read more
Industry in focus
This section features a monthly industry overview and key economic data for priority industries identified in Council's Economic Development Strategy.
Aviation is an established industry in Cairns with significant growth potential. Growth will be driven by maintenance, repair and overhaul capabilities and tourism, centred around the Cairns Airport.
In 2023/24, the local aviation industry directly generated an economic impact of $1.3B output, $317M value add and supported more than 1,973 jobs in Cairns.
By the numbers
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