Fortescue grants open to fund more Pilbara ideas

Pilbara community groups and organisations are being invited to apply for the next round of Fortescue Innovation Grants, opening on Tuesday 1 September.

The program provides grants of up to A$25,000 for locally led initiatives focused on innovation, sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The grants support local projects that create practical benefits for Pilbara communities, encourage innovation, sustainability and environmental responsibility across the Pilbara.

One of the now completed projects is a bush tucker and medicine garden at Hedland House in South Hedland, delivered by Julyardi Aboriginal Corporation.

The garden was established as part of Hedland House’s broader Safe Spaces environment, creating a culturally meaningful place where children, Elders and community members can share knowledge, connect with culture and learn together.

Children worked alongside local artists to paint the garden beds, while Elders selected and planted bush tucker and bush medicine species.

Fortescue Director Approvals, Communities and Services Rosli Wheelock said: “The Fortescue Innovation Grants are about supporting local ideas and helping organisations turn them into practical projects that benefit the community. The garden at Hedland House is a great example.

“It’s a place to share knowledge, connect with culture and learn together. It will continue to support cultural learning in Hedland for many years to come.”

Julyardi Aboriginal Corporation Chief Executive Officer Trina Stoddart said: “This garden gives Elders a dedicated place to share knowledge about traditional plants and their uses with children and the wider community.”

“It is wonderful to see the children involved in creating the garden and to have a space at Hedland House that brings culture, learning and community together.”

 Elders will run future sessions with children to share knowledge about traditional plants, their uses and their cultural significance. Julyardi also plans to open the garden to the broader community through workshops and other activities.

 Applications for the next round of Fortescue Innovation Grants open on Tuesday 1 September 2026.

For more information about eligibility and how to apply, visit https://www.fortescue.com/en/sustainability/building-thriving-communities/fortescue-innovation-grants-program