News

Grants ignite hope for bushfire-hit communities

By Shepparton News

Jul 23, 2026

The Victorian Government has opened Community Recovery Grants for communities affected by January’s bushfires. Photo by AAP Image/Julian Smith

Community groups and not-for-profits affected by January’s bushfires are now eligible to apply for grants of up to $75,000 through the Community Recovery Grants program.

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The grants aim to deliver locally-led recovery projects across bushfire-affected council areas.

Eligible projects may include trauma-informed training, psychological first-aid, community wellbeing events and workshops, and practical preparedness resources such as ‘Are You Ready?’ materials to help households plan for future emergencies.

The program will build on more than $420 million in bushfire recovery support already funded in partnership with the Commonwealth Government.

Victorian Natural Disaster Recovery Minister Vicki Ward said the grants were designed to give communities control over their own recovery.

“No two communities recover in the same way,” Ms Ward said.

“These grants put communities in the driver’s seat, giving them the flexibility to deliver the projects that will matter most.”

Applications close August 31.

For more information or to apply, visit vic.gov.au/community-recovery-grants-2026-bushfires

Those needing assistance can contact the Emergency Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760.