The Community Development Fund (CDF) is a $22 million initiative established as part of the Victorian Government’s Forestry Transition Program. This fund is designed to support local development projects in communities affected by the transition away from native timber harvesting. The program aims to fund initiatives that build business expertise, strengthen community capability, and support economic diversification aligned with Local Development Strategies.
Program Details
• Funding Amount:
- Stream 1: Up to $500,000 per project
- Stream 2: Minimum $500,000, with additional contestable funding available
- Total funding capped per community across rounds
• Application Status: Open
• Closing Date: Tuesday, 30 June 2026
Funding Streams
The program offers two distinct streams of funding to support opportunities identified by local communities:
• Stream 1: Supports project management and community upskilling initiatives to build business expertise and strengthen community capability.
• Stream 2: Provides funding to implement economic diversification opportunities identified through Local Development Strategies.
Eligibility Criteria
Applications are open to community and industry groups. Eligibility requirements vary depending on the funding stream. Eligible entities include:
• Incorporated community organisations
• Local government authorities
• Business and industry clusters or networks
• Non-profit organisations
• Chambers of commerce, business associations, and education and research organisations
Eligible Locations
Organisations operating in or near the following communities with a Local Development Strategy are eligible to apply:
• Benalla
• Corryong
• Heyfield
• Koondrook
• Murrindindi (including Alexandra, Taggerty, Buxton, Marysville)
• Noojee
• Nowa Nowa
• Orbost
• Swifts Creek
• Yarra Ranges (including Powelltown, Yarra Junction, Warburton)
• Yarram
Funded Project Types
Projects must align with Local Development Strategies and deliver clear economic and community benefits. Eligible initiatives include those that:
• Support economic transition and diversification
• Enable the development of new or emerging industries
• Create jobs and stimulate local economic growth
• Build community capability and resilience
• Strengthen local business ecosystems and opportunities
Application and Contact Information
To learn more about eligibility and the application process, please refer to the official program resources.
• How to Apply: Applications are submitted through the official program channels
• Phone: 1800 318 182
• Email: forestrytransition@deeca.vic.gov.au
This fund represents a targeted effort to support resilience and long-term economic growth in Victorian communities affected by the forestry transition. Applicants are encouraged to review detailed program guidelines to ensure alignment with stream requirements and Local Development Strategies.