Neighbourhood house funding declined

Hi everyone

If you have been past ACC in the last few months you will have noticed the bright pink signs in our windows … and you might remember signing a postcard for us - as all neighbourhood houses across Victoria have been campaigning for the State Labor Government to restore funding in real terms to the Neighbourhood House sector, after years of funding erosion.

Unfortunately this request was declined in the latest budget. And we’re really disappointed.

Neighbourhood houses help people at the most vulnerable times of their lives in every community across Victoria. With increasing global uncertainty and rising household costs, more and more people are feeling under pressure in a variety of ways Our hyper-local service - that is founded on kindness and community - creates a unique place for people who need support, whether that support takes the form of learning, material relief, friendship or community building … we listen, connect and empower people all day every day, in a very unique way. We make a real and positive difference in people’s lives, from young families. to retirees and everyone in between.

As a sector we cannot give up on our funding request. It is fundamental to the survival of many houses. So, we will now focus on seeking election commitments from our politicians to restore our funding. We will take the opportunity over the next six months to step up the pressure to seek commitments for support by the next government.

We’d appreciate anyone in our community who has the opportunity to add their voice to our campaign for funding restoration to speak up. If you love sending an email you can write to Kat Theophanous MP our local member, or if you have the chance to talk to her or other candidates as the election gets closer, please also don’t hesitate to reiterate the value of neighbourhood houses and what they mean to you - if you get the opportunity.

Many houses are feeling the financial pinch in real terms and our sector is in desperate need of restoration of the funding support that it initially had, to stay viable into the future.

Thanks, Leanne