The Albanese Labor Government is continuing to deliver on its commitment to create more jobs and economic opportunities in remote communities, with the third grant round of the Remote Jobs and Economic Development (RJED) program now open to fund 1,300 jobs across the country.
The Government is doubling the RJED program from 3,000 to 6,000 new jobs by 2030, with an additional $299 million investment, announced last week as part of the Commonwealth’s 2026 Closing the Gap Implementation Report.
The RJED program gives people the dignity of work in jobs that support community priorities, with decent wages and conditions, including superannuation and leave.
This is the largest grant round so far and builds on the 1,700 jobs already funded across remote Australia under the program.
Eligible employers in Remote Australia Employment Service (RAES) regions can apply for funding to help create new jobs as well as the infrastructure or equipment needed for those roles.
This can include uniforms, on-the-job training, insurances or operating expenses that enable long term, locally driven employment.
Employers are encouraged to work closely with their communities to identify local priorities and job opportunities.
Across remote Australia, people employed under RJED are supporting essential services, contributing to local enterprises and gaining new skills that help build stronger communities.
Grants are open until 7 April 2026.
For more information about RJED visit www.niaa.gov.au/employers
Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:
“Our Remote Jobs program is already having an impact in remote communities, with new jobs created across the country.
“A secure job with decent wages and conditions helps more than just the individual, it strengthens families and communities.
“This new grant round will build on that success, and I encourage eligible employers to apply to be part of RJED.
“Having a job and the dignity of work is a big part of Closing the Gap, that’s why we’re doubling the number of jobs being created under our Remote Jobs program.”
Quotes attributable to Special Envoy for Remote Communities, Marion Scrymgour:
“Employment and a meaningful job changes lives and helps build strong communities.
“RJED is an important program that is making some real impact for people in remote areas. This program provides real wages and conditions, but importantly it drives economic development and employment out bush.
“We know that when you invest in our people, our communities thrive.
“Round 3 is open and I’d encourage local businesses and organisations to apply and help drive some real outcomes for people.”