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Latrobe Health Assembly funding to end, but community support continues despite the disappointment

Funding for the Latrobe Health Assembly will end, but its commitment to community health continues, with plans to seek new partnerships to deliver vital, locally-led health and wellbeing programs.

By news@gippsland - 29th May 2025 - Back to News

The Latrobe Health Assembly announces that they have been notified by the Department of Health that funding from the Victorian government, which has supported the Assembly's operations since 2017, will cease.

Despite funding ending, Latrobe Health Assembly remains committed to community wellbeing and will pursue new partnerships to continue delivering impactful, locally-driven health programs

Assembly's vital loss

As the last remaining legacy of the Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry's health report, the Assembly acknowledges the detrimental impact this unexpected decision will have on its ability to deliver vital health prevention programs across the Latrobe Valley and elevate the voice of the community in decision-making.

Since its inception, the Latrobe Health Assembly has been at the forefront of community-driven health innovation, co-designing and delivering interventions with partners to transform the health and wellbeing of community members.

From pioneering mental health initiatives and early childhood development programs, tackling chronic disease and food insecurity, to responding to concerns about community safety and antisocial behaviour, the Assembly has worked hand-in-hand with the Latrobe Valley community to address its most pressing health challenges.

Proud community impact

Key highlights include:

• Distributing more than 11,000 free books through the Imagination Library, supporting children's literacy and early learning
• Embedding nurses in local primary schools and preschools, and launching school-based health programs, ensuring children's health concerns are identified and addressed early in a collaborative way
• Championing innovative mental health initiatives that have supported thousands of people to access the information, support, and the care they need
• Establishing initiatives such as the People's Kitchen and Family Assist to provide practical assistance to families and individuals in need

Chair of the Latrobe Health Assembly, Tanya Rong, said "While we are deeply disappointed by the Victorian government's decision to end our funding, we are incredibly proud of the work we have achieved together with our community. The Assembly stands as a testament to the power of local voices and collaborative action in shaping better health outcomes for everyone in the Latrobe Valley".

Commitment beyond funding

As the final remaining legacy of the Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry's health report, the Assembly's commitment to the community remains steadfast. Despite this funding setback, the Latrobe Health Assembly wil:

• Continue to advocate for and support the wellbeing of the Latrobe Valley community
• Actively seek alternative opportunities and partnerships to continue delivering innovative, community-led programs that are tailored to the specific needs of the Latrobe Valley community

"We are not giving up. Our community still faces significant health challenges, and we will continue to fight for the support that Latrobe Valley deserves," Tanya said.

The Latrobe Health Assembly wishes to thank the community members, partners, and organisations who have contributed to its success over the past eight years. Together, we have made a meaningful difference - and the journey is far from over.

Pictures from Latrobe Health Assembly Facebook page.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com