Community food security program – Local grants open

A total of $6 million is available in Local grants for community-led initiatives that help improve access to healthy, culturally appropriate food, as part of the $8.5 million Community food security program.
12 June 2026

Community, multicultural and volunteer-led groups can apply for Local grants of between $10,000 and $100,000. 

Funded projects will support more Victorian families in need to put food on the table. 

Eligible organisations can apply for grants that: 

  • help meet increased demand for food relief
  • improve access to healthy and culturally appropriate food
  • address the related drivers of food insecurity
  • strengthen and expand food security initiatives
  • build longer-term sustainability
  • fill critical gaps in food relief services.

We encourage neighbourhood houses to apply for the Local grants. Of the available funding, $2 million will be provided to neighbourhood houses. This funding recognises the valuable role these trusted hubs play in responding to local food relief needs across our state.

Applications for the Local grants close at 4 pm on Thursday 9 July 2026.

Learn more and apply on the Community Food Security Program – Local Grants web page

This year, the Local grants include a dedicated First Peoples grants stream. This stream will be delivered in partnership with the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) to support self-determined approaches. We will provide more information, including the opening date for these applications, soon.