- Published:
- Wednesday 20 May 2026 at 3:38 pm
Labor is making it easier for vulnerable inner west community members to get the support they need.
Premier Jacinta Allan, Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt and Member for Footscray Katie Hall today officially opened the Salvation Army’s new Lighthouse café in Footscray.
The drop-in café will provide support for people experiencing homelessness, alcohol and other drug issues or mental health challenges.
It will provide free meals and a warm, welcoming place for patrons to get back on their feet.
Backed by Labor – it is a gateway, connecting locals with the care and support they need including:
- Homelessness supports
- Mental health services
- Community health services
- Alcohol and other drug supports
- Other local community support services.
The service has been modelled on the successful Magpie Nest Café in Melbourne’s CBD, which is delivered through the Salvation Army’s Project 614.
By supporting vulnerable community members, the café will also help to improve safety for the people of Footscray.
The café can accommodate around 40 people at a time and operates as a drop-in service, to avoid queues outside.
It will be staffed by a dedicated team of Salvation Army workers and generous volunteers.
Located on the corner of Albert and Paisley Streets in the heart of Footscray, the site was chosen for its accessibility.
The Salvation Army’s Lighthouse Café is open Monday to Friday, from 10:00am to 4:00pm.
Quotes attributable to Premier Jacinta Allan
“Every Victorian deserves dignity, respect and support to get back on their feet.”
“We’re making Footscray safer for everyone, connecting vulnerable people with the supports they need.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt
“This service is going to be truly lifechanging for some of our most vulnerable community members.”
Quote attributable to Member for Footscray Katie Hall
“Labor is proud to be backing the Lighthouse café, which is such an important addition to our community, a place where you can go if you need a helping hand.”
Quotes attributable to Commanding Officer Salvation Army Melbourne Major Brendan Nottle
“The Salvation Army is deeply thankful to the Victorian Government - and in particular the Premier, Minister Stitt and Katie Hall for their support of this important initiative.”
“The Lighthouse Café will help improve food security, lack of connection and lack of access to services.”
“The Salvation Army has been overwhelmed by the level of good will from local Footscray community towards this project.”