Boosting cohesion, connection and community for vulnerable people across Australia

Neighbourhood houses are at the heart of communities across Australia, helping more than 400,000 people each week to feel welcome, safe and connected. The Albanese Labor Government is helping 60 neighbourhood houses, neighbourhood centres and community centres to better support vulnerable Australians, thanks to a more than $780,000 investment. With the help of the Australian Neighbourhood Houses and Centres Association (ANHCA), organisations will receive grants of up to $15,000 to support community-led initiatives and combat social isolation.

The funding will help empower young people, people with disability, vulnerable and disadvantaged women, and unemployed people experiencing disengagement to achieve social and economic participation. Projects will be trauma-informed, helping to break cycles of disadvantage as well as providing tools to build resilience and confidence through activities like cooking programs, cultural hubs and workplace and employment training.

Funded projects include: This funding is delivered under the Strong and Resilient Communities – Inclusive Communities (SARC-IC) Activity. More information on SARC grants is available on the Department of Social Services website. “Neighbourhood houses and centres are at the heart of our communities, helping people feel safe and connected.

“Every neighbourhood needs places where people feel welcome, supported and valued. That’s what these grants help deliver. “Projects that are locally led and community driven will help reduce isolation, instil a sense of belonging, build skills and connect people to important services.”