Neighbourhood Houses play a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of our rural and regional communities through providing social connection, essential services and recreational activities. That’s why the Andrews Labor Government is continuing to provide record levels of support, including funding of more than $42 million in 2022-23.
The State Government has worked with Neighbourhood Houses Victoria to build upon the significant value this sector brings to Victoria even more.
We’re reaffirming our commitment to Neighbourhood Houses with $19 million in additional funding over three years - as well as permanent ongoing annual funding of $6.6 million - for the network of nearly 400 Neighbourhood Houses right across the state.
By committing to ongoing funding, the State Government will provide certainty for those working in the neighbourhood house sector to support the important work they do.
The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing will be in contact with Neighbourhood Houses to amend all relevant service agreements to transition from fixed-term funding to ongoing.
This commitment honours and recognises the important work that is carried out every day in Neighbourhood Houses across the Ripon electorate, including at the St Arnaud Neighbourhood House, Wedderburn Community House, Inglewood Community Neighbourhood House, Ararat Neighbourhood House, Beaufort Community House and Learning Centre, Clunes Neighbourhood House, Creswick Neighbourhood Centre, Maryborough Community House, Mill House Neighbourhood House, and Dunolly and District Neighbourhood Centre.
Quotes attributable to Martha Haylett, Labor candidate for Ripon
“We are so lucky to have the best local neighbourhood houses right across Ripon. Every day they provide the support, social connection, services and activities that make our towns even better places to live.”
“The Andrews Labor Government’s commitment to deliver ongoing funding for neighbourhood houses will mean their amazing staff and volunteers can continue to operate with confidence.”
“I’ve been fortunate enough to see first-hand the incredible work that our neighbourhood houses do, especially for locals in need. I am proud to support them and will continue to advocate on their behalf to build even stronger communities right across Ripon.”
