$350,000 to build mentally healthy communities across Queensland

$350,000 in Queensland Government grants will train people in mental health first aid and support community mental health events across the state for Queensland Mental Health Week 2026 (QMHW).

For the first time, $200,000 will train 95 recipients in Mental Health First Aid, helping more Queenslanders gain the skills and confidence to recognise and respond to mental health challenges.

The training will equip everyday Queenslanders—including teachers, coaches, colleagues, community leaders and neighbours—with the knowhow to provide early support and connect people with appropriate professional help.

Grassroots community organisations will also share in $150,000 to support 94 local events that create mental health awareness, build connection and strengthen wellbeing.

QMHW runs from 3–11 October 2026, under the theme Build Community, Build Wellbeing—hi

ghlighting the important role everyday connections play in supporting mental health and wellbeing.

Community event grants will support local organisations to bring QMHW to life in communities across the state—from Yarrabah to Stanthorpe, and as far west as Mount Isa.

Events will provide opportunities for Queenslanders to come together, learn and talk about mental health and wellbeing, including people with lived-living experience of mental health challenges, their families and carers.

Activities supported through the grants include community events, workshops, wellbeing activities, and other local initiatives designed to strengthen connection and promote mental wellbeing.

Event grants ranging from $750 to $3,000, have been allocated to support activities that

promote mental wellbeing, reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking.

QMHW and associated grant programs are funded by the Queensland Mental Health Commission and administered by the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health.

Building stronger, more connected communities

Acting Queensland Mental Health Commissioner Bretine Curtis said Queensland Mental Health Week was an important opportunity to promote mental health and wellbeing.

“Queensland Mental Health Week creates the opportunity for community and social connection and starting conversations about mental health,” Ms Curtis said.

“The week is a chance to talk more about mental health, reduce stigma and dispel myths, and it reminds people that they do not have to face challenges alone.

“This year’s theme, Build Community, Build Wellbeing, recognises that our mental health is shaped by the many factors in which we live, learn, work, play and connect.

“I’m pleased that $350,000 in Queensland Government funding is supporting communities around the state to host mental health events and learn mental health first aid.

“These initiatives will help Queenslanders build stronger connections, reduce stigma, increase understanding of mental health and wellbeing, and be able to start conversations to support someone who may be doing it tough.”

Queensland Alliance for Mental Health CEO Dr Rosa Flaherty said community connection and belonging are important for creating mentally healthier communities.

“Mental wellbeing is built through the everyday connections we have with the people and communities around us,” Dr Flaherty said.

“Whether it is a conversation with a colleague, a morning tea with neighbours, getting involved in a sporting club, or coming together at a local community event, these everyday connections can strengthen wellbeing and help people feel they belong.

“The Queensland Mental Health Week grants recognise the important work being led by communities across Queensland to promote wellbeing, reduce stigma and create opportunities for people to connect, participate and feel a part of it.

“Strong communities support mental health, and everyone has a role to play in building mentally healthier communities.

“We particularly encourage Queenslanders to embrace this year’s theme and think about the small and meaningful things we can all do to Build Community and Build Wellbeing.”

Get involved in QMHW

Queenslanders are encouraged to get involved in QMHW by organising and registering their own event, attending a local event, accessing free QMHW resources or showing their support by wearing a teal ribbon or Queensland Mental Health Week merchandise.

The 94 successful QMHW Community Events Grant recipients and their activities will be available on the Queensland Mental Health Week website.

Queensland Mental Health Week 2026

Queensland Mental Health Week runs from 3–11 October 2026, incorporating World Mental Health Day on 10 October. The 2026 theme is Build Community, Build Wellbeing.

For more information, to register an event or find activities in your local community, visit www.qldmentalhealthweek.org.au.

Need support?

Lifeline – 13 11 14  l  text 0477 13 11 14  l  lifeline.org.au

Beyond Blue  l  1300 224 636  l beyondblue.org.au

13YARN  l 13 92 76  l  13yarn.org.au

For media enquiries, contact:

• Kate Southwell, QMHC P 1300 855 945  E  media@qmhc.qld.gov.au
• Chloe Jesson, Deputy CEO, Queensland Alliance for Mental Health  E ceo@qamh.org.au