NEIGHBOURHOOD houses across Victoria could receive a funding boost under a $10 million commitment announced by The Nationals.
The Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland announced the four-year commitment, which would provide $4 million in additional recurring funding for existing neighbourhood houses and a new $6 million growth fund.
The growth fund would support the establishment or expansion of neighbourhood houses in some of Victoria’s fastest-growing communities.
Ms Cleeland said neighbourhood houses often played an important role in supporting people facing difficult circumstances.
“Neighbourhood houses are the quiet lifeline in many of our communities,” Ms Cleeland said.
“They are places where people can get a meal, access food relief, learn new skills, find support, volunteer or simply sit down for a cuppa and have a chat.
“The people running these houses know their communities, they know the challenges families are facing, and they are often the first to see when someone needs a helping hand.”
The commitment would also extend support to neighbourhood houses that currently receive no state funding.
Ms Cleeland said the investment would be particularly important as communities across the electorate continue to grow.
“Our communities are growing, and the services people rely on need to grow with them,” she said.
“The $6 million growth fund will give neighbourhood houses the opportunity to establish or expand where there is growing demand.”
Ms Cleeland said neighbourhood houses had also played an important role during times of crisis, including bushfires, floods, drought and periods of financial pressure.
“From supporting families with food relief to providing a safe place to connect, these organisations are there when people need them,” she said.
“They are powered by people who care deeply about their communities, and they deserve a government that recognises the value of that work.”
