A charity kitchen in Abbotsford has quietly passed a major milestone—preparing over one million meals for Victorians doing it tough—thanks to a major upgrade funded by the state government and the everyday efforts of hundreds of volunteers.
FareShare’s expanded facility, now the largest charity kitchen in the country, reopened a year ago following a $2.2 million grant from the Allan Labor Government. Since then, it has transformed into a daily engine of relief, producing up to 5,000 meals a day for more than 400 charities across the state.
Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence visited the site this week, praising the efforts of the more than 600 volunteers who, alongside chefs and staff, keep the kitchen humming—chopping, peeling, and packing meals for people experiencing hardship.
“FareShare is helping Victorian families get through tough times—whether they’re escaping family violence, sleeping rough, caring for loved ones or simply trying to make ends meet,” said Minister Spence. “This kitchen runs on the dedication of more than 600 volunteers… their efforts are making a real difference in people’s lives.”
The upgrade has done more than increase volume. It’s also given a boost to FareShare’s Meals for the Mob program, which hosts sessions where First Nations communities gather to cook, connect, and share food and culture. Over the past year, the kitchen has opened its doors to more than 100 school groups and 200 corporate volunteer teams—offering hands-on support while fostering civic engagement.
The effort is part of a broader partnership: FareShare joined forces with SecondBite in July 2024, forming one of the most effective food relief networks in Victoria. Together, they’ve been able to extend their reach, particularly into regional areas where support is often harder to access.
SecondBite’s capacity was recently enhanced with a new 10-pallet truck funded by a $250,000 grant under the Labor Government’s $4.5 million Community Food Relief Program. Since February, that truck has delivered over 138,000 kilograms of food, enabling a monthly delivery increase of more than 50 per cent.
“We’re incredibly thankful to the Victorian Government for supporting both SecondBite and FareShare to scale up food relief efforts,” said Daniel Moorfield, CEO of both organisations. “FareShare’s upgraded kitchen is now producing an extra 300,000 meals annually, and SecondBite is reaching more people in regional Victoria than ever before.”
Since 2020, the Victorian Government has committed over $56 million to food relief initiatives across the state, including $6 million in the most recent budget. As the cost of living continues to put pressure on families, these investments are becoming an essential part of the support system.
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
