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Victorian Neighbourhood Houses at risk of closure as funding from Andrews Labor government uncertain

Victoria's Neighbourhood Houses need certainty in funding, but it is far from happening as Andrews Labor government continues to cut funding with almost all sorts of government programs.

By news@gippsland - 8th August 2022 - Back to News

Victoria's neighbourhood houses are a meeting point and a connection to the community, yet the future of as many as 27 Neighbourhood Houses is now in jeopardy due to funding uncertainty from the Andrews Labor government. This is despite a concerted effort three years ago by the sector - supported by The Nationals - to secure additional funding of $5.4 million annually for the Neighbourhood House Coordination Program (NHCP).

Victoria's Neighbourhood Houses play a vital role in helping locals access everything from food hampers through to training and education courses

Funding axed

This funding was used for core service provision purposes, with staff placed on permanent contracts and programs established using what people believed was secure, long-term funding.

To their shock, Victoria's neighbourhood houses were later told the funding was a once-off, meaning programs may be axed, some staff may no longer have an ongoing position and could mean the closure of 12 rural Neighbourhood Houses.

Those Neighbourhood Houses that wouldn't be forced to close could still be in a precarious situation, being unable to attract staff and having existing services impacted.

Delivering range of services

Ongoing funding would mean certainty for every neighbourhood house, and the diverse community so dependent on each one of them, that has been short-changed by Labor.

Neighbourhood houses deliver an incredible range of services in the community, but it's also the social aspect of going to a neighbourhood house, they are a vital cog in our community.

Remember this November how the Andrews Labor government turned its back on our communities as the cost of living continues to skyrocket. Only a Liberal and Nationals government will ensure our Neighbourhood Houses receive the long-term funding they need.

Pictures from Morwell Neighbourhood House Facebook page.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  The Allan Labor government's Regional All Abilities Participation Grants offer up to $25,000 for clubs to boost disability inclusion through equipment, training, travel support, and all-abilities sports programs.
• Wellington Shire Council invites open conversations on financial pressures impacting community services, roads, and facilities
  Wellington Shire Council faces rising costs, rate caps, and funding pressures, yet remains committed to delivering essential services and urging government reform to better support regional communities into the future.
• Danny O'Brien warns faulty firefighting vehicles are leaving local CFA Brigades under pressure ahead of bushfire season
  Danny O'Brien has criticised the Allan Labor government for failing to repair faulty firefighting vehicles, warning the issue is placing pressure on CFA brigades and reducing Gippsland's preparedness for bushfire season.
• Darren Chester secures $20,000 to preserve Tambo Valley trenches commemorating Victoria's WWII history
  Darren Chester secured $20,000 funding to preserve the historic Tambo Valley Trenches, enhancing access, safety, and interpretation, while honouring East Gippsland's wartime history and boosting cultural tourism along the Great Alpine Road.