If you run a small building or trade business in Queensland, the state government will now put up to $5,000 towards new business software and training. The Construction Business Advancement Grant opened on 6 November 2026 and runs until 5pm on 7 May 2027, or until the money runs out.
That could mean the job management, quoting or accounting system you’ve been putting off. Here’s what you need to know before you apply.
What is the Construction Business Advancement Grant?
It’s an $8.8 million Queensland Government program that helps small construction businesses go digital. Eligible businesses can claim up to $5,000 (excluding GST) for business management software, training to use it, or both.
The aim is to help you work more efficiently, keep on top of compliance and cut running costs. The grant is paid as a rebate, so you buy first and get reimbursed once your invoices are approved.
Who can apply?
Your business needs to tick every one of these boxes:
- 19 or fewer employees (by headcount)
- Turnover of $10 million or less in 2025-26
- At least one year of trading history
- An active ABN and registered for GST
- A Queensland headquarters listed on your ABR record
- An ATO industry code in construction, covering residential or non-residential building and related trades
You can’t apply if the business is insolvent, a director is an undischarged bankrupt, or you’re part of a group with 20 or more staff in total. Not sure about your industry code? The ATO’s business industry code tool will tell you, and Business Queensland has an online eligibility checker.
What can you spend it on?
The money must go on products listed in the government’s software and training catalogue. Eligible software falls into four groups:
- Productivity: project and job management tools
- Accounting and finance: payroll, invoicing and bookkeeping
- Compliance: safety and regulatory tools
- Construction-specific: software built for builders and trades
Subscription software is covered for up to 24 months, and you can use the grant to upgrade a program you already have to a higher tier. Training to use the software, including customised training, is covered too.
If the product you want isn’t in the catalogue, you can ask for it to be reviewed and added.
How to apply
The most important rule: don’t buy anything until your application is approved. Purchases made before approval won’t be reimbursed.
- Check your eligibility with the online checker on Business Queensland.
- Choose your software or training from the catalogue and save your selections as a PDF.
- Complete the 100-points-of-identification form and have it witnessed.
- Apply through SmartyGrants, attaching your catalogue PDF and ID form.
- Once approved, buy the software or training from the supplier.
- Submit your invoices and proof of payment, then receive your rebate.
Applications close at 5pm on 7 May 2027, but funding is first come, first served, so it’s worth getting in early. For help, call 13 QGOV (13 74 68). Full details are on the Business Queensland grant page.
Protect the business you’re building
New software makes it easier to win more work and grow your business. As you grow, it’s worth checking your insurance keeps pace.
Moving your quotes, invoices and client details online also brings new risks. A cyber attack or data breach can stop a small business in its tracks, and most standard business policies won’t cover it. More jobs, bigger contracts, new trucks or more plant can also mean your public liability, tools or vehicle covers need a review.
Insuregroup works with Queensland tradies, builders and transport operators every day. Get in touch with Insuregroup for a no-obligation review of your cover, so you can focus on the job while we look after the risk.
This article is general information only and doesn’t take into account your personal circumstances. Check the official program guidelines before applying.