Government Funding to Help Queensland Manufacturers Improve Energy Efficiency
The Queensland Government is offering matched funding between $7,500 and $50,000 (ex GST) to help manufacturers reduce energy consumption, lower operational costs, and improve sustainability through the Manufacturing Energy Efficiency Grant (MEEG) Program.
This initiative is part of the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, designed to support local businesses in modernising their operations through smarter, cleaner energy solutions.
What the Grant Covers
Eligible manufacturers can receive funding for up to 75% of eligible project costs – or up to 100% for lighting-only projects. A total of $7.1 million is available in this funding round.
To qualify, projects must demonstrate at least a 10% reduction in energy use or carbon emissions and must not begin before the grant agreement is signed.
Funded projects must meet at least two of the following objectives:
- Improve energy efficiency measures
- Reduce energy usage and associated costs
- Reduce carbon emissions
- Improve energy awareness and management
All projects must be delivered at a Queensland-based manufacturing site and be completed within 12 months of the funding agreement being executed.
Examples of Eligible Projects
- Installing energy-efficient HVAC or compressed air systems
- Electrifying heat processes traditionally powered by gas
- Upgrading to LED lighting with automated controls
- Replacing outdated manufacturing equipment with energy-efficient models
- Deploying real-time energy monitoring and management systems
Projects must meet the following minimum cost thresholds:
- Lighting-only projects: minimum $7,500 (ex GST)
- All other projects: minimum $10,000 (ex GST)
The grant cannot be used for projects already underway, standard business upgrades unrelated to energy efficiency, or general operational costs.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, your business must:
- Be headquartered in Queensland and operate primarily in manufacturing (ANZSIC Division C)
- Derive the majority of annual turnover from manufacturing activities (ANZSIC Division C)
- Employ between 5 and 200 full-time equivalent staff, including at least 5 employees in Queensland
- Be registered for GST and hold an active ABN
- Have been trading in Queensland for at least 12 months
- Own or lease the project site for at least the next year
- Have the financial capacity to fund the project upfront (as the grant is reimbursed post-completion)
Additional conditions:
- Only one application per entity is allowed in this round (you may include multiple project items, but no new quotes or costs can be added after submission)
- Applicants must not be, or be associated with, an entity that has:
- Received more than $50,000 (ex GST) in total under the MEEG Program
- Been awarded funding in Round 1 and not yet completed the project
Projects will also be ineligible if they:
- Have commenced before signing a grant agreement
- Are funded by another government grant
- Are submitted by insolvent businesses or those with undischarged bankrupt directors
Key Dates
Applications close 5:00pm AEST, 30 June 2025, or sooner if funding is exhausted. Applications are assessed on a first-come, first-served basis and must meet the program’s merit criteria. Early submission is highly encouraged. Allow approximately 12 weeks for processing and notification.
How to Apply
- Review the full Program Guidelines (PDF) to confirm your eligibility.
- Obtain at least one quote per activity or upgrade included in your application.
- Submit your application online via SmartyGrants.
- If successful, you will receive a grant agreement to sign before starting your project.
- After completion, submit your project documentation and invoices for reimbursement.
Invest in Your Future
Whether you’re replacing inefficient machinery or installing smart energy tracking systems, this grant offers a practical opportunity to future-proof your operations, reduce costs, and contribute to a more sustainable Queensland manufacturing sector.
Further Information
Contact us today and ask how we can help you! To find out more about the program, application and eligibility criteria, click here.
