The Andrews Labor Government is investing in Melbourne’s diverse metropolitan communities, supporting the projects local communities have told us matter to them.
Minister for Suburban Development Melissa Horne today announced $4.15 million from the Labor Government’s Metropolitan Partnerships Development Fund.
Through the Supporting and Advancing Aboriginal Communities project, $720,000 was allocated to Moondani Balluk at Victoria University to advance Aboriginal community-led work, increasing access to services and enabling direct advocacy to the Labor Government.
Another 18 projects across Melbourne will receive funding to support work in health, local job creation and skills training, housing, transport and combatting social isolation.
Inner city projects will focus on strengthening food security, building social connection and supporting neighbourhood batteries.
Residents in the inner south-east will enjoy the extension of the the Chatty Cafe scheme, helping to bring community members together.
Funding will also support the prevention of homelessness in women over 55, improve mental health resilience and create indigenous art trails in eastern Melbourne.
In Melbourne’s north, the Labor Government will help build creative industry pathways, improve the health workforce, and create a community-wide electric vehicle transition plan.
Communities in Melbourne’s west will gain from a range of projects that promote green spaces, explore alternative water for open space irrigation, provide mental health support for CALD seniors, and boost small to medium businesses, while a framework will be developed to identify areas for investment in communities in the south.
There are six Metropolitan Partnerships, bringing together experts and leaders from all levels of government, business and the community to address issues that matter most to them.
Since the Metropolitan Partnerships were formed in 2017, they have engaged more than 13,000 Melburnians to provide a voice directly from the suburbs to the Government.
Quote attributable to Minister for Suburban Development Melissa Horne
“Only a Labor Government will give the voice to the community in our decision making, that’s why the Metropolitan Partnerships have gone from strength to strength, bringing people together where and when they need it most.”
Quote attributable to Member for Footscray Katie Hall
“These projects show we’re serious about providing local leaders opportunities to help shape the future of their communities.”
Media Contact: Mike Dolan 0474 909 471 | mike.dolan@minstaff.vic.gov.au
Reviewed 21 October 2022