Victoria’s Neighbourhood Houses will receive a $10-million funding boost under The Nationals in government, strengthening local community hubs that provide practical support and connection to Victorians doing it tough.
Neighbourhood Houses are at the heart of communities across the state, where dedicated staff and volunteers provide a place where people can access meals, food relief, clothing, social activities, education, volunteering and support.
The Nationals’ rolling commitment over four years will provide additional and recurring funding to support existing Neighbourhood Houses, and create a new fund to establish and expand Neighbourhood Houses that currently receive no state funding.
Member for Lowan and Deputy Leader of the Nationals Emma Kealy said $4 million would be allocated to strengthen the financial sustainability of existing Neighbourhood Houses, while a new $6 million growth fund would support the establishment and expansion of Neighbourhood Houses in some of Victoria’s fastest-growing regions.
“From Horsham to Harrow, Kaniva to Casterton and many other communities, Lowan’s Neighbourhood Houses provide an incredible range of supports to thousands of people every year, and demand for these supports has only escalated as cost-of-living pressures rise,” she said.
“These organisations are trusted, welcoming places that communities can turn to for practical support, and they often do the work that would otherwise fall through the gaps.
“With so many people doing it tough, the role of Neighbourhood Houses has never been more important. But under Labor, the hard-working staff and volunteers of these organisations have been continually expected to do more with less.
“The amazing teams behind the 11 Neighbourhood Houses across Lowan deserve a government that recognises their value and gives them the support they need to continue making a difference in the lives of so many.
“The Nationals’ commitment will ease the funding burden that Neighbourhood Houses have faced for too long, so they can keep their doors open and continue their vital work for Victorian communities.”
Neighbourhood Houses in Lowan:
Hamilton Community House
Horsham Neighbourhood House
Stawell Neighbourhood House
Old Courthouse Community Centre, Casterton
Nhill Neighbourhood House Learning Centre
Rainbow Neighbourhood House
Budja Budja Neighbourhood House, Halls Gap
Harrow Neighbourhood House
LINK Neighbourhood House, Kaniva
Murtoa and District Neighbourhood House
Warracknabeal Neighbourhood House and Learning Centre
