Yarra Valley Water’s 2026 Community Grants Program Now Open
Published on 30 March 2026
The program is one of the many ways Yarra Valley Water partners with local organisations to create positive and lasting outcomes across Melbourne’s north and east.
Now in its second year, the program aims to build on its strong impact, having provided more than $100,000 to 14 community-led projects last round.
Yarra Valley Water’s Managing Director, Natalie Foeng, said the organisation was excited to expand the program after the positive response to its pilot program.
“The response to our last round exceeded expectations, and it’s clear the community is ready to do even more. That’s why we’re expanding the program, and we can’t wait to see what the next round of applicants will achieve,” Ms Foeng said.
“Every project we support creates a ripple effect of positive change, and we’re excited to see that impact grow even further this year.”
Span Community House, a community garden that has been feeding, educating and connecting thousands of people in Thornbury for 20 years, received a $14,000 Yarra Valley Water Community Grant.
Span Community House Climate and Garden Coordinator Carmen Lahiff-Jenkins said, “Yarra Valley Water’s grant has transformed what our community garden can deliver. The new watering system and connected rainwater tank has made the space more sustainable and productive.
“We’re now able to grow more food, welcome more participants, including those with mobility challenges, and strengthen the programs that support thousands of people each year. This investment hasn’t just upgraded our garden; it has strengthened the way we care for our community.”
This year, projects are invited to apply for funding across three categories:
- Water efficiency and water conservation - for projects that help communities save water and build water-smart habits, such as installing water-saving devices, improving irrigation or rainwater systems, carrying out water audits and efficiency upgrades, or helping people build their knowledge about water.
- Thriving communities – for projects that create positive impact in local communities. For example, initiatives that improve social and environmental wellbeing, or events and activities that help our communities connect and thrive.
- Healthy natural environment – for projects that help restore and protect our natural environment. For example, rehabilitation of landscapes and waterways, supporting our local biodiversity and wildlife or creating water-wise spaces in our community.
Eligible applicants include not‑for‑profit community organisations, schools, registered associations, charities, incorporated bodies and community groups across Yarra Valley Water’s service area.
Ms Foeng encouraged eligible applicants to consider how the grants could help them deliver projects with real local impact.
“We’re inviting organisations to think about how financial support could help bring their ideas to life. Practical, community‑led projects can create real, lasting benefit and we’re excited to help make them happen.”
Applications open Monday 30 March 2026 and close at 5.00pm on Friday 1 May 2026. Eligible organisations must be based in, or deliver services within, Yarra Valley Water’s service area.