Applications are open for a $1.7 million grants program for multicultural projects that work to break down barriers and create opportunities for culturally and linguistically diverse Queenslanders.

The Strengthening Multicultural Queensland (SMQ) program will fund projects aimed at boosting economic participation, building community capacity to address issues such as healthy relationships in culturally appropriate ways, and supporting the positive participation of young people in their communities.

The program consists of two categories – Empowering Multicultural Community projects, and Youth and Community Connection projects.

Eligible applicants are invited to apply for one-off funding of up to $100,000 in each category.