Australia Post has today announced more than $700,000 in funding for 81 community-led organisations and projects across Australia, through its Community Grants program, supporting local initiatives that foster connection to improve mental health and wellbeing outcomes in their communities.
Marking Mental Health Month, more than half of this year’s successful applicants are based in rural and remote locations, which are often the areas that need the most grassroots support. For a second year, the grant program included additional funding dedicated to initiatives in disaster-impacted communities, recognising the important role local not-for-profit groups play throughout the recovery process. In 2026, 31% of grants were allocated to projects supporting communities affected by natural disasters.
The 2026 grants build on more than a decade of support provided by Australia Post’s Community Grants program. Since 2013, more than 1,000 grants have been awarded to community groups across Australia, supporting projects that create positive impact in the community through connection and mental health and wellbeing initiatives.
Grants of up to $10,000 each will fund initiatives across every state and territory, including projects such as:
- Gardening, cultural learning and wellbeing activities that bring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, Elders and community members together in Queensland.
- Resilience workshops, events and recovery activities that help communities affected by the January 2026 bushfires reconnect, rebuild and strengthen wellbeing in regional Victoria.
- Creative arts workshops that support LGBTQIA+, autistic and neurodivergent young people to build confidence, belonging and community in New South Wales.
Australia Post General Manager Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said local groups are best placed to understand what their communities need to feel supported and connected, particularly in remote, rural and disaster-prone areas.
“Strong local networks can make a real difference to how people feel supported and connected, particularly in communities experiencing challenges.
“These grants are designed to back organisations at the heart of their community, that understand the people they serve and create practical ways to bring them together and support their wellbeing.
“We’re proud to continue investing in initiatives across Australia, including in rural, remote and disaster-affected communities where local support can be especially important,” Ms Tracey said.
The full list of Australia Post’s 2026 Community Grant recipients, listed by state and territory, is available at auspost.com.au/grants.
