Big boost for Geelong food relief services

Geelong Foodshare is set to expand its reach across western Victoria thanks to a $250,000 boost from the Allan Labor Government.

The funding comes from the Community Food Relief Program, which has doubled its budget to $9 million this year, supporting major providers and grassroots initiatives across the state.

The Geelong-based organisation was one of seven major recipients of a Coordination Grant, which will help strengthen local food distribution partnerships and enhance delivery of fresh, nutritious food to those in need.

Member for Lara Ella George said the funding was about more than immediate relief.

“Everyone deserves access to nutritious food, and with this significant investment for the Geelong community, we’re not just providing immediate relief for those who need it, we are also fostering sustainable pathways for our community,” she said.

Member for Geelong Christine Couzens said the funding would help families put healthy meals on the table.

“Food security is important to families. This funding will assist Geelong Foodshare, in their vital role, to provide support and enable families to continue to put healthy meals on the table.”

Geelong Foodshare CEO Andrew Schauble said the grant would strengthen their regional impact.

“This state government Coordination Grant will help us continue supporting the Barwon South West region and Golden Plains Shire, which includes some of regional Victoria’s most in-need communities,” he said.

“Through Geelong Foodshare’s work with over 70 place-based charities, we help local organisations run the community programs their towns rely on.”

Local organisations also benefited from Local Grant funding, including:

• $97,000 to Wathaurong Booln Booln Cultural Centre to support a hospitality trainee and food garden.

• $54,500 to Norlane Community Centre for staffing and inclusive weekly meal offerings.

• $48,000 to Common Ground Project for a cultural cooking program with refugee and migrant women.

• $19,500 to The Outpost Geelong for new microwaves, packaging, and volunteer training.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the funding reinforced the government’s commitment to regional families.

“This funding boost ensures our local food relief organisations can keep doing what they do best – supporting families with dignity and care.”

The Victorian Budget 2025/26 has allocated $18 million for food relief statewide, bringing total investment in food security to more than $74 million.