This grants program has been set up to help communities affected by the January 2026 Victorian bushfires.

This grant program will help support the following:

• locally-led recovery projects that work alongside the activities of the local council
• staff who work on the projects
• community resilience and social connection
• Aboriginal communities to lead relief and recovery through local decision making and culturally safe, community-led activities
• communities in their recovery, with a focus on people's mental health and wellbeing.

Applications are open to organisations delivering recovery support in an area affected by the January 2026 bushfires.

Applicants must be a community organisation or group that is a legal entity. This means you are incorporated or a social enterprise.

Your organisation must also have an Australian Business Number (ABN) and be registered for GST.

You can be a:

• community organisation
• not-for-profit
• Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation
• Traditional Owner Corporation
• Community Recovery Committee
• Committee of Management.

If you are not incorporated or don't meet the ABN or GST requirements, you may still be able to apply with an auspice.

See the guidelines for more details on your organisation's requirements including incorporation and taxation status.

• Email: grants@erv.vic.gov.au