VicHealth grants open to boost community wellbeing

The Nationals' Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, is urging local community groups and organisations to apply for VicHealth’s Growing Healthy Communities grants.

The $4.7 million funding round is now open and applications close on 30 October 2025.

“These grants play a vital role in helping communities come together, stay active, and access healthy, affordable food,” Mr McCurdy said.

“They provide opportunities for people of all ages to engage in activities that support both physical and mental wellbeing. For regional areas like ours, these programs are particularly important, as access to health promoting initiatives isn’t always as easy as in the city.”

Last year, 84 community organisations across Victoria received support through the Growing Healthy Communities program.

This year, the grants will focus on helping young people from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, including regional communities, while tackling barriers that limit participation and wellbeing.

Funding is available in two tiers:

• Tier 1: $10,000 – $50,000

• Tier 2: $50,001 – $150,000

Eligible applicants include sporting, community, cultural, recreational, creative, some local government, and other not-for-profit organisations. Full eligibility details are available at  https://www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/funding/growing-healthy-communities-grants-round-2

“Our grassroots organisations are the lifeblood of regional communities, often operating on very limited budgets,” Mr McCurdy said.

“By supporting these groups, we can help more people lead active, healthy, and connected lives, no matter their background or where they live in Victoria.”