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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