2 June 2026
PLS’ annual Community Grants Program has opened for applications, inviting community organisations in Port Hedland, Strelley, Yandeyarra and surrounding communities to apply for funding to support locally led initiatives.
The program provides one-off grants of up to $10,000 for initiatives aligned with PLS’ commitment to shaping tomorrow, with a focus on education, community resilience and the energy transition.
PLS Chief People and Sustainability Officer Sandra McInnes said the program, now in its fourth year, reflects the Company’s ongoing commitment to supporting the communities where it operates.
“We’re proud to back grassroots initiatives that respond to local needs and help strengthen community connection, resilience and opportunity across the Pilbara,” Ms McInnes said.
“We’ve already seen the positive difference these projects can make, and we encourage organisations with ideas that will benefit their communities to apply.”
Since launching in 2023, the Community Grants Program has supported 37 initiatives across Port Hedland and surrounding communities from sporting clubs and youth programs through to wellbeing, environmental and community-focused projects.
One organisation supported through the 2025 program was the Hedland Amateur Swimming Club, which received funding to purchase equipment for the club’s Northern Regional Long Course event – one of the largest community swimming carnivals in the region.
The event attracted around 110 competitors from across the Pilbara and included 88 events for swimmers ranging from juniors to veterans, with times officially recorded against state and national qualifying standards.
Hedland Amateur Swimming Club President Mat Wheeler said regional swimming competitions play an important role in giving local athletes opportunities to compete closer to home.
“Competing in local sport in WA and the Pilbara is logistically challenging. For swimming, where there is only one club per town, this is even harder,” Mr Wheeler said.
“There are only a handful of meets in the Pilbara and Kimberley each year, so being able to hold one of these events at our home in Port Hedland is something we are really proud to do.
“For our swimmers who find it hard to travel or don’t normally compete, this gives them the opportunity, once a year, to experience what it is like to swim in an official meet against quality competitors.
“The camaraderie and encouragement during this time were truly special and provided a positive experience for both the swimmers and the town.”
The Community Grants Program forms part of PLS’ broader Community Investment Framework, which supports initiatives aligned with community priorities and aims to deliver positive, long-term outcomes in the community.
Organisations interested in applying for the 2026 Community Grants Program can find further information here.
Applications close on 30 June 2026.
Annual Community Grants Program