The Coastcare Victoria Community Grants program supports community organisations to protect and enhance the coastal and near-shore marine environment.

The grants fund community-led environmental groups and organisations that deliver projects to support the community in caring for and acting for the marine and coastal environment.

Projects that align with one or more of the 2026 Coastcare Victoria Community Grants objectives:

• Championing Inclusivity - increasing the diversity of coastal stewardship and volunteering participants.
• Improving Capacity - coastal education, citizen science and engagement activities that build knowledge and understanding of climate change, sustainability and conservation.
• Increasing On-ground Actions - to conserve, restore, and protect the coastal environment.
• Strengthening Traditional Owners' Self-Determination - recognising their longstanding connection to Sea Country.

Funding up to $10,000 may be available.

The following applicants are eligible:

• community-led environmental groups or networks
• non-government environment-focused organisations
• Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs)
• Aboriginal groups or organisations
• Committees of Management (excluding Local Government)
• educational and research institutions, including schools and universities (recommended to partner with a local coastal volunteer group and/or align with the Coastcare Victoria Schools Kit).

All applicants must meet the following financial governance requirements:

• Registration/Incorporation via one of the following:
  • Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission; OR
  • Consumer Affairs Victoria/other state incorporating agency; OR
  • Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978; OR
  • Registered Victorian Aboriginal Party
  • an Educational Institution
• Insurances to cover the duration of the project:
  • Hold public liability insurance of at least $20 million; AND
  • Volunteer personal accident insurance

Applicants who are not eligible can still apply for funding but must operate under an Auspice organisation

• Phone: 136 186
• Email: Coastcare.Victoria@deeca.vic.gov.au