The Seymour Community Wellbeing Hub will go forward with its first stage, following the Federal Government’s $15 million commitment.
The $15 million investment is from the Federal Government’s Growing Regions Program and $2 million from Mitchell Shire Council will allow stage one of the project to begin.
A long-standing priority for council and its partners, the hub will house a range of vital services including mental health services, community health and wellbeing support, and veteran health services.
The facility is also planned to include connected community spaces including library and multi-functional community rooms.
A health and wellbeing hub was identified through the Seymour Revitalisation Project as a top priority for the community.
This project is supported by a strong partnership including Seymour Health, Nexus Primary Health, Goulburn Valley Health, with the support of Seymour RSL, Goulburn Options and Go Seymour.
After years of dedicated planning and advocacy, Mitchell Shire Council Mayor Louise Bannister said the hub had been a visionary project for the community.
“If our community wants to access Veterans Services or mental health they have to go elsewhere,” she said.
“This will be a shared space with a no wrong door approach which is not currently available in Seymour.
“We are eagerly looking forward to working with the community on the look and feel of the Hub and then seeing shovels in the ground.
“It’s an exciting step towards making a significant difference in the lives of our community members.”
Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Bridget McKenzie joined Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell and Mitchell Shire councillors and health leaders last year calling for Federal Government funding in that year’s budget.
A life changing project Mr Birrell has long advocated for, he said he was delighted to see this project receive the funding it deserved.
“The Coalition committed to this project at the 2022 federal election, and I am delighted to see this project get the funding it deserves,” he said.
“I have worked with Mitchell Shire and various stakeholders in advocating for this project, which will see up to 10,000 people access to integrated health and mental health support.
“It will provide access to desperately needed services for the people of Seymour and includes integrated family violence support, veterans support, employment, and education services.
“It is exciting to see what can be achieved when organisations form partnerships and work together for a common goal.”
