Victoria’s Neighbourhood Houses will receive a $10 million funding boost under The Nationals in government, helping community hubs continue providing vital support for Victorians facing cost of living pressures.
The commitment follows Neighbourhood House Victoria’s Day of Action earlier this year, when hundreds of supporters rallied on the steps of parliament, and a parliamentary petition sponsored by The Nationals’ Melina Bath that garnered 5,658 signatures calling for greater support for the sector.
Ms Bath said Neighbourhood Houses face growing financial pressure as rising costs and inadequate state government funding impacts the services local communities depend on.
“Our Neighbourhood Houses are at the heart of our communities, providing a safe and welcoming place where people can access food relief, clothing, education, social connection and other critical supports,” Ms Bath said.
“The cost of living crisis has led more regional Victorians to rely on their support, placing greater pressure on services and increasing their operating costs.”
The Nationals’ commitment includes $4 million to improve the financial sustainability of existing houses and a $6 million Growth Fund to support new and expanding houses in Victoria’s fastest growing communities.
Ms Bath said Neighbourhood Houses across eastern Victoria were helping thousands of people each year and their importance had never been greater.
“Each week more than 185,000 Victorians access their services – many are in regional Victoria where access to support is the most limited.
“As more families and individuals face financial hardship, our Neighbourhood Houses continue to deliver practical support and prevent vulnerable people from falling through the cracks.
“Dedicated staff and volunteers have been doing more with less for far too long – this $10 million funding boost will provide the certainty they need to continue delivering vital services for their communities.”
Ms Bath thanked the 5,658 Victorians who signed the petition in support of Neighbourhood Houses.
CAPTION – Neighbourhood House Victoria hands over their parliamentary petition calling for greater support for the sector. CEO Neighbourhood House Victoria Keir Paterson, The Nationals’ Melina Bath, Vice President of Neighbourhood House Victoria, Network Manager of Neighbourhood Houses Gippsland Antonia (Toni) Halloran-Lavelle
