Premier’s visit announces support for food relief

VICTORIAN Premier Jacinta Allen visited Geelong Foodshare on Friday last week to announce a boost to food relief and a power saving bonus.

The 2025-26 Victorian Budget includes $18 million in expanded food relief across the state, doubling the support for organisations as cost of living rises.

A $6 million investment will also double the governments support for the Regional Food Security Alliance (RFSA) and the state’s six regional Foodshares, including in Geelong.

Geelong Foodshare chief executive officer Andrew Schauble said the announcement and funding of the RFSA was a continuation of support over the next two years.

“The two-year part is exciting to us because obviously it helps us focus on what we do best and actually look to be a bit more strategic as we support the communities.”

 

Geelong Foodshare supports more than 55 local organisations and in 2023-24 delivered the equivalent of 2.2 million meals, with demand for the service continuing to rise in 2025.

Mr Schauble said the six regional hubs were still finalising the exact details on how they will use the funding, but it will be similar to last year.

“We will have some funding that will stay with the RFSA to do with an executive officer but also provide some projects that we can all use and support.

“What we’ve found and part of the reason why we’ve been working so well together is ultimately, we vary in terms of how we operate, but there’s a lot of consistency across what we do.

“If we can create efficiencies and support each other rather than all repeating everything, that’s what we’re trying to do.”

Although the funding is welcome, Geelong Foodshare recognise it is not sustainable to constantly increase around the food support space, and is working with other partners and community groups to educate around food choices, nutrition and growing food.

 

The Victorian government will also support concession card holders with a $50 million investment, providing them with a one-off $100 Power Saving Bonus.

“So many families and workers are doing it tough and I’m on their side,” Ms Allen said.

“I’m focused on what matters most – delivering real help with the cost of living for families who need it.”

All Victorians are encouraged to visit the free and independent Victorian Energy Compare website to get the most out of their money.

To compare your energy bill, head to compare.energy.vic.gov.au or phone 1800 000 832