Deadline: 23-Apr-2026
The Victorian Government offers grants to support Landcare and environmental volunteer groups in protecting and restoring Victoria’s natural environment. Funding supports on-ground works, community engagement, volunteer participation, and Traditional Owners’ initiatives, with project grants up to $20,000 and support grants up to $500.
Program Overview
The Victorian Government Landcare and Environmental Volunteer Grants aim to strengthen community-led conservation efforts across the state. These grants help groups protect natural assets, restore ecosystems, engage new volunteers, and build capacity for sustainable environmental stewardship.
Key Focus Areas
- Environmental Protection and Restoration: Native vegetation, fauna, waterways, wetlands, and soils
- Volunteer Engagement: Expand participation and attract diverse volunteers
- Education and Knowledge Sharing: Increase understanding of natural environments
- Disaster Recovery: Support community-led recovery initiatives
- Traditional Owner Engagement: Recognize and support Traditional Owners’ connection to Country, healing, and cultural care
- Group and Network Development: Sustain and enhance capacity of environmental volunteer groups
Funding Details
- Total Available (2026): $3.55 million across Victoria
- Project Grants: Up to $20,000
- Eligible activities include on-ground works, education, engagement, and capacity-building projects
- Support Grants: Up to $500
- Cover essential costs like insurance, incorporation, and operational needs
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants include:
- Victorian Landcare groups and networks
- Friends of groups and Conservation Management Networks
- Committees of Management and Coastcare groups
- Aboriginal groups and organisations working on Country
- Cross-border networks with Victorian member groups (projects must be delivered in Victoria)
Applicants must ensure projects align with the program’s objectives and demonstrate meaningful engagement with the local environment and community.
How to Apply
- Identify Project Type: Determine if your initiative requires a project grant (up to $20,000) or a support grant (up to $500)
- Prepare Project Plan: Include objectives, expected outcomes, and details of on-ground or engagement activities
- Engage Your Community: Ensure participation from volunteers, Traditional Owners, and local stakeholders where relevant
- Submit Application: Follow the application process via your local Catchment Management Authority
- Ensure Compliance: Include all supporting documentation, budgets, and evidence of group incorporation if applicable
Expected Outcomes
- Improved protection and restoration of natural assets
- Increased volunteer participation and community engagement
- Strengthened knowledge and understanding of the environment
- Support for Traditional Owner-led initiatives and cultural care
- Enhanced resilience to natural disasters and climate impacts
- Stronger, sustainable Landcare and environmental networks
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly link proposed activities to environmental outcomes
- Demonstrate inclusive volunteer engagement and community benefit
- Highlight collaboration with Traditional Owners where relevant
- Include detailed budgets and cost justifications
- Ensure alignment with local Catchment Management Authority priorities
FAQ
1. Who can apply? Victorian Landcare and environmental volunteer groups, including Aboriginal organisations and cross-border networks with Victorian members.
2. What types of grants are available? Project grants up to $20,000 and support grants up to $500.
3. What activities are eligible? On-ground works, education and engagement, capacity building, and operational support.
4. Are cross-border networks eligible? Yes, if projects are delivered within Victoria.
5. Can Aboriginal groups apply? Yes, particularly for initiatives supporting care for Country and cultural heritage.
6. Is volunteer engagement required? Yes, activities should include meaningful participation of volunteers.
7. How do I submit my application? Through your local Catchment Management Authority following the official guidelines.
Conclusion
The Victorian Landcare and Environmental Volunteer Grants 2026 empower community groups to actively protect and restore the state’s natural landscapes. By funding practical projects, supporting volunteer engagement, and strengthening group capacity, these grants contribute to sustainable environmental stewardship and resilient, vibrant ecosystems across Victoria.
For more information, visit Victorian Government.