Australia Post has strengthened its commitment to communities across Victoria, with the state revealed as the biggest benefactor of its 2026 People of Post grant program.
This year will see 84 Victorian organisations awarded with a grant, including 40 mental health charities.
One of the organisations named is the Cann Valley Rural Fire Brigade, with funding to go towards strengthening community connection and preparedness by maintaining a strong, visible presence at local and emergency events.
Grant funding will support the purchase of a large–capacity barbecue and CFA–branded banners, enabling safe catering, community education, volunteer recruitment and engagement with local schools and emergency service partners.
This strong local focus highlights how the program is directly targeting priority needs identified within Victorian communities.
Across nine years, the program has delivered more than $2.4 million in grants to over 2400 not-for-profit community organisations across Australia.
This year, Australia Post’s People of Post program has awarded almost $500,000 in grants to 251 community initiatives spanning
metro, regional and remote areas across the country.
These grants support organisations addressing some of Australia’s most critical social challenges such as mental health, disaster resilience, literacy, and environment.
Nationally, mental health initiatives received 152 grants, the highest of any category, followed by environment with 41 grants, and disaster support with 39 grants.
Australia Post General Manager Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said the program supports Australia Post team members to back local organisations that are making a real difference in their community.
“This year, the People of Post program is supporting more community initiatives than ever before, with a 12 per cent increase in grants compared to 2025,” Ms Tracey said.
“As cost-of-living pressures heighten, this program provides real grassroots community support.
“Our team members see firsthand the challenges facing their local community every day, particularly in regional Australia, where access to mental health support can be limited.
“The People of Post program empowers our people to respond in a meaningful way, supporting local organisations that are doing vital work to improve wellbeing, build resilience and strengthen social connection.
“We’re incredibly proud to play a role in supporting so many mental health organisations and other deserving charities across Australia, and to continue delivering for communities in ways that truly matter.”
The full list of Australia Post’s 2026 People of Post grants recipients, listed by state/territory, and more information is available at auspost.com.au/popgrants.
