The State Government Financial Aid Fund Program (SGFA) provides recurrent grants to Aboriginal Shire Councils and Island Coordinating Councils (ICC) established under the Local Government (Community Governance Areas) Act 2004 and the Community Services (Torres Strait) Act 1984.

The grants are provided as a financial contribution (in lieu of rates) to meet the costs incurred by Aboriginal Shire Councils and Island Councils in the provision of essential services and community policing (including financial administration).

The funding provided to the ICC is for general operating costs such as staff salaries and other administrative needs.

The SGFA is expected to be paid to Aboriginal Shires and Island Council in the first week of every month.

Grant payments to Aboriginal Shires and Island Councils are recommended as detailed in the State Government Financial Aid Fund Schedule 2005-2006