About Us
Om Bhandara Ltd began as a grassroots volunteer group responding to the urgent need for food relief during the Covid-19 lockdowns. What started as an emergency response has grown into an ongoing community service, delivering over 25,000 free meals between 2021 and 2024 to people across Melbourne’s western suburbs, with a particular focus on the Brimbank region.
Our work has been carried out in partnership with the Victorian Priority Response for Multicultural Communities program, and our volunteers have a strong connection to Melbourne’s South Asian communities — including Indian, Nepalese, Sri Lankan, Fiji Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi residents. We understand the unique challenges faced by migrants and newly arrived community members, particularly those on temporary visas who may not have access to gainful employment, government support, or a safety net.
Om Bhandara Ltd is now a formally registered charity (ACNC Registered:21 July 2025)
With Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status (ABN:55 689 264 766), allowing us to continue and grow this essential service for the long term, and giving our supporters the ability to claim tax deductions on their donations.
Our Mission
To ensure no one in our community goes hungry — by providing free, nutritious, and culturally appropriate meals and food relief to those experiencing hardship, with dignity, compassion, and respect.
Our Purpose
Provide free hot meals and long-life food hampers to individuals and families facing food insecurity Support migrants, international students, and seniors on temporary visas who lack access to income or government assistance.
Respond to the ongoing impacts of the cost-of-living crisis on at-risk and culturally diverse communities, Build sustainable, community-driven food relief systems that reduce waste and strengthen local connections.
Foster a culture of giving, volunteering, and mutual support across Melbourne’s western suburbs
