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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, 25 July 2025Servicing of Generators
Council is inviting submissions from suitably qualified and experienced Contractors for the servicing of Council's 103 Generators. Closes 4.30pm, 1 August 2025Waste and Recycling Kerbside Collection Services
Council is seeking submissions and competitive rates for Waste and Recycling Kerbside Collection Services across Council's service area. Closes 4.30pm, 6 August 2025Smithfield Library Upgrade
Council is inviting tender submissions for the delivery of the Smithfield Library Refurbishment Project. The refurbishment is to enhance the layout and design of the space. Closes 4.30pm, 13 August 2025
Workshops, training and industry events
August Members Orientation Session
This session is open to new, prospective or existing members wishing to refresh their knowledge of being a part of the Cairns Chamber of Commerce.
When: 6 August
Where: Cairns Chamber of Commerce Office
Cost: FREE | Register Here
Grants and business support
Defence Industry Development Grants Program
Funding is available to Australian-based small to medium enterprises and Defence Industry Associations, with the program offering four key streams: Sovereign Industrial Priorities, Skilling, Export, and Security. Closes August 2025, or until funding is exhausted.
Find out more
Small Business Recovery Assistance Grant Program
This jointly funded grant program provides up to $15,000 in essential financial support to 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
This program helps 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
Mentoring for Growth (M4G) offers eligible businesses free access to volunteer business experts who provide insights, options and suggestions relating to challenges and opportunities you are experiencing in your business.
Find out more
Workforce Evolve: Help to grow your business
Workforce Evolve is a free program for Queensland employers, designed to help you build a diverse, inclusive workforce. Access online modules and tailored coaching to attract and retain top talent - now and for the future.
Find out more
Council news in brief
Council calls for crime support grants at state conference
Cairns Regional Council has submitted five motions to the LGAQ Annual Conference, including a call for State Government grants to help not-for-profits cover the rising costs of crime-related damage, theft and security—prompted by cases like a local cricket club facing over $150,000 in damages. Other motions cover heat mitigation, housing supply, trading hours reform and land management, all aiming to address key community challenges across Queensland.
Read more here.
Grant support for community events
Council has approved funding for two local events through the Community Partnerships Grant program, with $25,000 for the 2025 Babinda Harvest Festival and $5,000 for the Yorkeys Knob Twilight Christmas Markets. The grant supports community-led events that celebrate local culture and bring people together.
Read more here.
Continued support for North Queensland Sports Foundation
Council has renewed its membership with the North Queensland Sports Foundation, committing over $150,000 across three years to support programs that boost regional sport participation and celebrate local achievement. The Foundation also helps deliver Cairns priorities like promoting women’s sport, supporting the 150-year celebrations, and strengthening local clubs.
Read more here.
Cairns Italian Festival returns with flavour and flair 24 July - 3 August
Now in its fourth year, the festival celebrates food, heritage and hospitality with a packed program that draws thousands to the region.
Proudly supported by Council, the event drives tourism, supports local jobs and highlights our region’s rich cultural vibe
International cricket returns to Cazalys Stadium this August
Australia takes on South Africa in two huge international matches at Cazalys – a T20 on 16 August and a One Day International on 19 August.
Proudly supported by Council, the matches back the Cairns & Great Barrier Reef Major Events Strategy by driving visitation, supporting the local economy and reinforcing our status as a premier host city.
Tickets and details available via Cricket Australia
Save the date: Cairns Infrastructure and Assets
Industry Briefing Event
The annual event gives local business an overview of the Directorate’s Capital Works Program for FY2025-26 and an opportunity to network with key Council decision makers.
The Energy Advantage
Maximise opportunities for cheaper and cleaner energy
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
Case Study: TNQ Plastics (RDATN)
The TNQ Plastics project is taking on the plastic waste challenge in Cairns!
With only 1.5% of plastics recycled locally, this initiative by RDA Tropical North aims to transform our region into a leader in sustainable waste management. By diverting 5,500 tonnes of plastic waste from landfills each year, we can boost recycling rates, cut emissions, and build a circular economy right here at home.
Watch the story of TNQ Plastics unfold!
By the numbers
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