Deadline: 23-Apr-2026
The 2026 Victorian Government Landcare Grants provide funding to community-led environmental volunteer groups to protect and restore Victoria’s landscapes, waterways, and biodiversity. Grants support projects, volunteer engagement, and operational needs, with funding up to $20,000 for projects and $500 for support grants.
What Are the Victorian Landcare Grants?
The Victorian Government Landcare Grants program funds environmental volunteer groups and networks working to conserve Victoria’s natural environment. The program aims to:
-
Protect and restore landscapes and biodiversity
-
Encourage participation from new and diverse volunteers
-
Enhance knowledge and understanding of the natural environment
-
Support recovery from natural disasters
-
Recognise and support Traditional Owners’ connection to Country
-
Sustain and develop Landcare and volunteer environmental networks
For 2026, the government has allocated $3.55 million to assist community-led groups in improving the health of Victoria’s land, waterways, and biodiversity.
Types of Grants
Project Grants
-
Funding up to $20,000 per project
-
Supports on-ground environmental works, community education, engagement initiatives, and group or network development
-
Focus on protecting or improving native vegetation, fauna, waterways, wetlands, and soils
-
Projects must be completed, and final reports submitted by 30 November 2027
Support Grants
-
Funding up to $500 for operational expenses such as insurance, incorporation fees, and essential administration
-
Groups may apply for both grant types, but receiving a Project Grant excludes eligibility for a Support Grant
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include community-led environmental volunteer groups and networks in Victoria, such as:
-
Landcare groups and networks
-
Friends of groups
-
Conservation Management Networks
-
Coastcare Victoria groups
-
Committees of Management
-
Aboriginal groups or organisations working on Country
-
Cross-state border groups delivering projects in Victoria
Eligibility Requirements
-
Must be an incorporated association or affiliated with Landcare Victoria Incorporated
-
Hold Public Liability Insurance of at least $20 million
-
Hold Volunteer Personal Accident Insurance
-
Groups not meeting incorporation requirements may apply through an auspice organisation providing written approval
Ineligible Applicants
-
Private companies or individuals
-
Australian Government agencies, Catchment Management Authorities, local or state government statutory bodies, water authorities, or industry bodies
-
Organisations with outstanding reporting obligations from previous Victorian Government funding
Why It Matters
The grants empower communities to:
-
Improve land and water health across Victoria
-
Engage and educate volunteers and local communities
-
Recognise and support Traditional Owners’ roles in land and biodiversity conservation
-
Strengthen and sustain environmental volunteer networks for long-term impact
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Verify your group or network meets incorporation, insurance, and membership requirements.
Step 2: Determine Grant Type
Decide whether to apply for a Project Grant or a Support Grant. Groups receiving a Project Grant cannot receive a Support Grant.
Step 3: Prepare Application
Provide details of the proposed project or operational support needs, including budgets, timelines, volunteer engagement strategies, and collaboration plans.
Step 4: Submit Application
Submit through the official Victorian Government Landcare Grants portal, including all required documents and approvals from auspice organisations if applicable.
Step 5: Complete and Report
Successful applicants must complete projects and submit final reports by 30 November 2027 for accountability and funding compliance.
Tips for Applicants
-
Ensure insurance coverage and incorporation status are current
-
Include clear objectives, environmental outcomes, and volunteer engagement plans
-
Highlight collaboration with Traditional Owners or Aboriginal community groups
-
Provide detailed budgets and timelines
-
Address sustainability and long-term benefits for the local environment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for Victorian Landcare Grants? Community-led environmental volunteer groups and networks in Victoria.
2. What is the maximum Project Grant funding? $20,000 per project.
3. What is the maximum Support Grant funding? $500 for operational expenses.
4. Can groups apply for both grants? Yes, but receiving a Project Grant makes a group ineligible for a Support Grant.
5. Are Aboriginal groups eligible? Yes, especially for projects supporting Country and culture.
6. Are private companies or government agencies eligible? No, they are ineligible.
7. When must projects be completed? Final reports must be submitted by 30 November 2027.
Conclusion
The 2026 Victorian Government Landcare Grants support volunteer groups and networks in protecting and restoring Victoria’s natural environment. By funding community-led projects and operational needs, the program encourages active participation, strengthens local environmental action, and ensures sustainable conservation efforts across the state.
For more information, visit East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority.
