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Victorian Liberal and Nationals invests $100M in mental health with Community Empowerment and Wellbeing Grants program for election 2022

Communities across Victoria will have increased opportunities to engage in mental health initiatives thanks to a $100 million Liberal and Nationals Community Empowerment and Wellbeing Grants program.

By news@gippsland - 10th November 2022 - Back to News

The Community Empowerment and Wellbeing Grants program will provide $63.5 million will be distributed equitably across Victoria, according to local government area but administered by the state government - $500,000 each for greater Melbourne council regions and $1 million each for rural and regional council regional - for locally significant programs. The balance of funding will go towards broad-reaching programs with a footprint across multiple regions.

Community education on mental health can help to reduce stigma surrounding mental health conditions and promote a positive mental health environment

Mental health awareness

Community Empowerment and Wellbeing Grants program will include $1.2 million over four years for the Let's Talk Foundation, a grassroots movement developed in the state's south-west to promote awareness and reduce stigma often associated with mental illness, particularly suicide.

The organisation runs an innovative mental health program for schools, businesses and community groups in the Moyne, Corangamite and Warrnambool areas, and will be able to expand its offerings to Southern Grampians and Glenelg shires thanks to the Liberals and Nationals' funding.

Driving community resilience

Shadow Minister for Mental Health, Emma Kealy, said community mental health education programs and initiatives such as Let's Talk are key drivers of community resilience and played a significant role in improving overall mental health in towns, clubs, schools and organisations. "Locals know their own communities best, and our commitment will empower locals to deliver targeted solutions that support community wellbeing at a grassroots level," she said.

"Across the state there are many fabulous mental health and wellbeing programs developed locally, using local people including those with lived experience. We know this model works, but government support for community education and support programs in this space has been lacking for many years under Labor."

"After the devastating impact of lockdowns and restrictions, these programs are needed more than ever, which is why a Liberals and Nationals Government will invest in our communities so they can continue to lead the way in supporting local people." Ms Kealy said.

Providing real solutions

Member for South-West Coast, Roma Britnell, said only the Liberals and Nationals were committed to providing real solutions that would support the mental health and wellbeing of all Victorians. "I am thrilled that amazing organisations like Let's Talk, which does terrific work in raising awareness of mental illness across the state's south-west, will be better supported to continue leading the way towards better mental health outcomes for our communities," she said.

Member for Polwarth, Richard Riordan, said the Community Empowerment and Wellbeing Grants would provide greater opportunities for local organisations to deliver the targeted, grassroots support that locals needed.

"We will always support and work alongside local people and organisations to deliver initiatives that will make a real and lasting difference to the mental health and wellbeing of their communities," he said

Pictures from Roma Britnell MP Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Nationals MP Martin Cameron criticised Minister Lily D'Ambrosio for refusing to review outdated coal overlays blocking 2000 new homes in Traralgon, despite studies confirming land stability for development.
• Martin Cameron demands action as data reveals dangerous one-star safety ratings on Latrobe Valley roads
  Nationals MP Martin Cameron has condemned the poor safety of Latrobe Valley roads, after state data revealed many key routes rated one or two stars, demanding urgent government action.
• Darren Chester praises TAFE Gippsland and BRHS partnership for training local students to strengthen regional health workforce
  Darren Chester praised TAFE Gippsland and BRHS for training local students, highlighting regional partnerships as key to addressing health workforce shortages and encouraging young people to pursue local health careers.
• Danny O'Brien congratulates Sandy Point and Loch Sport Men's Sheds receiving state funding to enhance community facilities
  Sandy Point and Loch Sport Men's Sheds have received over $43,000 in state funding to upgrade facilities, recognising their vital role in supporting men's wellbeing and community connection.
• Southern Rural Water upgrades over meters across Gippsland to improve accuracy and fair water management
  Southern Rural Water is replacing 1,000+ outdated meters across southern Victoria by 2026, boosting accuracy, compliance, and fair water management under national standards - with no cost to customers.
• Join the conversation and help shape South Gippsland and other council projects, programs and initiatives
  Join the conversation this spring! Share your ideas on South Gippsland's future through community consultations, including Pre-Prep, Draft Plans, Governance Rules, and the 2026/27 Budget.
• Gippsland Water appoints Sam Muir and Kellie O’Callaghan to the board, bringing experience, diversity and community focus
  Gippsland Water has appointed Sam Muir and Kellie O’Callaghan to its Board, bringing diverse experience, strong community engagement, and fresh perspectives, while outgoing directors Jo Benvenuti and Chris Badger are acknowledged.
• Melina Bath urges communities to honour veterans' families and support Legacy Week fundraising efforts
  Melina Bath urges communities to support Legacy Week, honouring veterans' families. Funds raised provide financial, educational and emotional support, continuing Sir Stanley Savige's century-old vision of care, compassion and mateship.
• Danny O'Brien urges families to claim up to $200 for kids' sport through Get Active program by 31 December 2025
  Danny O'Brien is urging families to apply for the Get Active Kids program, offering up to $200 for children's sport and recreation costs to ease cost-of-living pressures and encourage participation.
• Danny O'Brien urges Gippsland Sporting Clubs to register for Get Active Kids Voucher Program reopening on October
  Danny O'Brien urges Gippsland sporting clubs to register for the Get Active Kids Voucher Program, supporting families with up to $200 per child for sports fees, uniforms, and equipment.
• Bass Coast Council launches mid-term review of Climate Change Action Plan, celebrating achievements and inviting community input
  Bass Coast Shire Council is reviewing its Climate Change Action Plan 2020-2030, celebrating renewable energy achievements and inviting community feedback through surveys, pop-up sessions, engagement events, and a special film screening.
• Danny O'Brien urges Labor government to fund new Port Welshpool Coast Guard vessel for community safety
  Danny O'Brien urges the Allan Labor government to urgently fund a new $2 million vessel for Port Welshpool Coastguard, ensuring volunteers can safely cover Corner Inlet, Wilsons Promontory, and protect locals.
• Peri Urban Councils urge state government to invest in infrastructure and support housing growth across regions
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria is urging government investment in infrastructure after a new report recommended 40% of new homes be built in regional Australia, highlighting housing demand, high costs, and infrastructure pressures.