Get Your SmartyGrant Application In

At the time of writing, they had just approved seven grants for local organisations across Tieri and Capella, totalling over $34,000! 

If your organisation has an idea for a project or initiative that could benefit the local community, OCC is urging you to apply for one of their 2026 grants. 

Tieri News spoke to Kate French, Senior Environment and Community Advisor at OCC, to dispel some myths and alleviate any doubts about the grant application process.

Time Misconception

“One of the biggest barriers to people applying for a grant is a lack of time, which is why we use the SmartyGrant platform,” reveals Kate.

“Previous applicants have told us how quick, easy and intuitive the application process is; I’d hate to think a misconception was stopping organisations from applying.”

Kate is keen to share a tip that can really help to save time: “know your numbers”. If you understand what your idea will cost, how much funding you are applying for and, if applicable, how much you are getting from elsewhere, you’re well on your way to completing the application.

Eligibility Concerns

Another barrier to community organisations applying for a grant is uncertainty about their eligibility. Kate has a remedy for that, too. “Every grant has information to help groups determine if their project or idea is eligible, and a list of what won’t be accepted.”

Simply visit the Glencore SmartyGrants webpage, choose the grant you want to apply for, click on ‘Preview the Form’ and a wealth of information will help guide you. 

“And if that doesn’t reassure you of your eligibility, just give the Environment & Community team a call, or send me an email,” asserts Kate. “We’re here to help make it as easy as possible for you to apply, so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance with your application!” 

If at first you don’t succeed…

Kate’s final piece of advice is to not give up. “Just because your application didn’t get approved the first time, it doesn’t mean you should discount it altogether. Make sure you seek feedback to understand why it was unsuccessful and then, if applicable, you can make any necessary adjustments and reapply for the next round.”

For more information, guidelines, and to apply for any of the grants available, visit glencore.smartygrants.com.au.

For queries about deadlines, questions in the form, or assistance with your application, please contact the Environment & Community team on (07) 4984 7245 during business hours, or email Kate.French@Glencore.com.au or occenvironment@glencore.com.au.

Glencore and OCC Grants available in 2026

Oaky Creek Coal Local Community Investment Grants Program
• Up to $10,000 per community organisation, per grant
• Round 2 NOW OPEN – closes 31 August, 2026
• Round 3 opens 1 September – closes 14 December, 2026

Click to apply

Oaky Creek Coal Local Community & Family Events Grants
• Up to $10,000 per event, per grant
• Open all year – closes 14 December, 2026

Click to apply

Glencore QLD Junior Sports Development Program
• Up to $7,500 per community organisation, per grant
• Round 2 opens 1 August, 2026, closes 31 August, 2026

Click for more info