The Andrews Labor Government is continuing to support the vital work of Neighbourhood Houses as hubs for community connection, the delivery of essential services and the well-being of Victorians.

The Government is reaffirming its enduring support for the valuable work of the community hubs with $19 million in additional funding over three years – as well as ongoing annual funding of $6.6 million – for the network of nearly 400 Neighbourhood Houses right across the state.

Neighbourhood Houses encourage community connection and cohesion by bringing local people together to socialise in a safe, inclusive and convenient space, participate in recreational activities and deliver essential services.

The hubs provide childcare, employment, education, training and opportunities to volunteer in local communities.

During emergencies, Neighbourhood Houses provide critical support to communities through services like food relief.

The Neighbourhood Houses have been particularly important during the pandemic, with many distributing personal protective equipment, providing advice and acting as testing or vaccination sites.

The hubs are also instrumental in providing accessible education to the community, ensuring people from a diverse range of backgrounds have the opportunity to study and learn new skills that enable people to achieve their potential.

In 2022-23, the Neighbourhood House Coordination Program is investing record funding of more than $42 million a year to almost 400 Neighbourhood Houses, 16 Neighbourhood House networks and the peak body Neighbourhood Houses Victoria.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Colin Brooks

“We are proud to continue to support Neighbourhood Houses, enabling them to play a vital role in successfully building vibrant Victorian communities.”

“The powerful role of Neighbourhood Houses has never been more evident than the way the sector stepped up to provide assistance to Victorians through the pandemic.”