The Victorian Government has opened applications for a new $5 million funding program aimed at strengthening grassroots multicultural organisations and improving outcomes for multicultural and multifaith communities across Victoria.
The Multicultural Capacity Building Program was announced on Thursday by Ingrid Stitt, with grants designed to help organisations build skills, leadership and operational capacity while expanding their reach within local communities.
The program offers three funding streams, with grants of up to $10,000, $100,000 or $400,000 available to both emerging and established organisations. Funding can be used for projects that develop skills, partnerships and leadership, as well as to support day-to-day operations such as IT systems and business planning.
Applications from organisations representing new and emerging communities, along with those based in rural and regional Victoria, will be given priority under the scheme.
The program offers three funding streams, with grants of up to $10,000, $100,000 or $400,000 available to both emerging and established organisations
Announcing the program, the minister said the funding was about strengthening the foundations that support Victoria’s diverse communities.
“Victoria has a proud history of multiculturalism and diversity, but we know that it needs to be nurtured and supported. This funding helps build the strong foundations to ensure that all Victorians can fully enjoy our state’s vibrant and inclusive society,” she said.
The program forms part of the government’s response to the Victorian Multicultural Review, led by George Lekakis AO and published in September 2025. The review called for greater support for grassroots organisations to help them become stronger and more sustainable over time.
The program forms part of the government’s response to the Victorian Multicultural Review, led by George Lekakis AO and published in September 2025
According to the government, the new funding is intended to help community groups improve governance, develop leadership pipelines and build partnerships that allow them to better serve their communities.
“Grassroots multicultural organisations are the lifeblood of our communities – we’re backing them in with extra funding so they can continue supporting our multicultural communities,” the minister said.
Applications for the Multicultural Capacity Building Program are now open and close on 19 February 2026. Information on eligibility, upcoming information sessions and application guidelines is available through the Victorian Government website.
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