Impact Research Grants will address critical intersections between public and private sectors, and civil society to reduce health inequities in Victoria.

The 2026 Impact Research Grants (IRGs) will support four research projects across Victoria.

• Each project can apply for up to $245,000 in funding
• Funding is provided over a two-year period, starting July 2026
• The total funding pool for this round is $980,000

Projects must align with at least one of the key research themes and meet the required research approaches outlined below.

Research themes:

• Climate change and food systems
• Promoting inclusive and welcoming sports, recreation, arts, and community approaches
• Tackling and leveraging digital environments

Key Dates:

• Grant round opens: Monday 6 October 2025
• Funding Portal open for applications: 12pm AEDT, Monday 24 November 2025
• Applications close: 5pm AEDT, Monday 15 December 2025
• Assessment period: January-February 2026
• Notification to applicants: Mid-March 2026
• Commencement of grants: July 2026

Please note: VicHealth is currently updating the Funding Portal to make it easier and more user-friendly. The Portal will not be open to submit applications until 12pm AEDT, Monday 24 November.

Eligibility

Applications must be submitted by researchers based in Victoria, from:

• A Victorian Administering Institution (a university, or a research institution linked to a university, that is an existing Administering Institution as defined by the NHMRC, whose main business location is in Victoria), OR
• An Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander-led organisation, as long as the application includes an academic partner with an affiliation to a Victorian Administering Institution (as defined above). The academic partner must provide a Letter of Support confirming their support as part of the application.

For this funding round, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led organisations must be one of:

• Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO)
• Registered with the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC)
• Have a minimum of 51% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander board representation and/or minimum of 51% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ownership
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation established by Acts of Parliament (e.g., Traditional Owner Group).

See guidelines for additional eligibility requirements.

• Email: researchgrants@vichealth.vic.gov.au