The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) is partnering with the Victorian Government to deliver the 2026–27 Aboriginal Community Food Security grants, providing up to $725,000 to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Victoria facing food insecurity.
Grants of $10,000, $25,000, $50,000 or $100,000 are available to Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), Aboriginal Gathering Places, and Aboriginal-led organisations to design and deliver locally led food security activities that are culturally responsive and self-determined.
VACCHO CEO Dr Jill Gallagher AO says the grants recognise the outsized and ongoing impact of colonisation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the critical role that Community-controlled organisations play in responding to it.
“Food insecurity doesn’t exist in isolation. It is deeply connected to the inequities Aboriginal communities face in health, housing, education and employment – all of which are the ongoing legacy of colonisation. These grants put resources directly in the hands of the organisations that know their Communities best.”
The grants are intended to strengthen Community food security in ways that are self-determined, dignified and place-based. Funded projects may include:
- food pantries
- community gardens and food share initiatives
- cooking and food skills workshops
- yarning circles centred on food knowledge
- partnerships with local food relief agencies
- developing locally tailored food resources.
Minister for Carers and Volunteers Luba Grigorovitch joined Dr Gallagher and VACCHO COO Jim O’Shea to launch the grant program.
“We know many working families are doing it tough right now. That’s why we’re backing local community organisations to deliver food relief where it’s needed most and help make sure families have food on the table,” Minister Grigorovitch said.
Up to 25 grants will be awarded, with all projects to be completed by June 2027. No co-contribution is required from applicants.
“Aboriginal-led organisations are already doing this work. These grants are an opportunity to expand what’s working, build new initiatives where there are gaps, and ensure that food relief reaches Community in ways that are accessible, culturally safe and connected to broader supports,” Dr Gallagher said.
Eligible organisations are encouraged to apply via VACCHO’s Smarty Grants portal – and to propose activities that reflect their Community’s specific food security priorities and local context.
