Australia Post Expands Community Grants Program

Australia Post has today announced a major expansion of its Community Grants program for 2025, with an additional allocation of up to $250,000 to support grassroots initiatives in disaster-impacted communities.

From today, eligible not-for-profit groups can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support projects that enhance mental wellbeing, foster connection and build resilience in their local communities. Since 2020, Australia Post has awarded more than 350 grants to community groups across Australia. Last year, the program awarded 71 projects across the country, providing them with more than $500,000 of funding. More than half of successful applicants were based in regional areas.

Australia Post General Manager, Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey said: "In times of disaster, it's local organisations that are best placed to support the recovery process. They understand their communities, know what's needed and are there for the long haul. That's why we're proud to offer an additional allocation of up to $250,000 in community grants this year, to support projects in disaster-impacted communities across Australia that promote mental wellbeing, strengthen social connections, and build resilience within their communities."

Professor, Head of School of Psychological Sciences at Macquarie University, Dr. Maria Kangas said: "Community groups play a vital role in helping individuals and families recover and rebuild after disasters, not just physically, but emotionally and socially. They offer a unique combination of practical support, emotional connection and shared purpose that fosters resilience and a sense of hope. Unlike larger institutions, grassroots organisations are deeply embedded in the fabric of their communities. They understand the needs of their communities, have earned trust, and can offer tailored support that's realistic and responsive. Supporting these organisations is an essential investment in the long-term recovery and wellbeing of disaster-affected communities."

2024 recipient, Windemere Child and Family Services in Mirboo North, Victoria, played a vital role in supporting community wellbeing through its Storm Recovery Whittle and Chat group. In the wake of destruction following a major storm, the group helped participants to create meaningful items from storm debris, fostering resilience, social connections and community cohesion.

Bree Brunswick, Support Worker at Windemere Child & Family Services said: "The Whittle and Chat project was born from the aftermath of the storms that left our community scattered with fallen timber. What started as debris became the foundation for something much more meaningful. We knew we wanted to use this to bring the community together and transform the damage into something beautiful. Many participants started as strangers and, after the workshops, now form a strong support network as they navigate their recovery journey together. Without the Australia Post Community Grant we would not have been able to get the project off the ground. It allowed us to shape the project in a way that met our community's needs. If you're thinking of applying, go for it. Your project could be the spark that helps your community grow stronger."

Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to review the Community Grant guidelines carefully to check eligibility requirements, with eligible organisations able to apply until 11.59pm AEST on Monday 7 July 2025. To check eligibility, visit: auspost.com.au/grants. Successful applicants will be notified in September 2025.

The Community Grants program is part of Australia Post's broader commitment to mental health, which includes a partnership with Beyond Blue that to date has delivered mental health resources to more than sixteen million letterboxes across Australia. Australia Post is also a founding member of Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds, which supports mental health and wellbeing in the transport and logistics industries.