- Published:
- Monday 6 June 2016
Future community leaders living in Victoria’s largest regional city are set to enjoy the benefits of the Geelong Community Leadership Program thanks to $800,000 in funding from the Andrews Labor Government.
Established by the Committee for Geelong, the program works to create stronger regional leaders by helping participants advocate for economic and community development.
Minister for Local Government, Natalie Hutchins, today announced the Government’s investment in the program, which will enable its continued delivery over the next four years.
The program builds on contemporary leadership theory and practice to help participants better understand and grow the local economy, which is increasingly driven by knowledge, skills and expertise.
It is currently working to increase the diversity of its participant base and has more than 300 alumni, 25 active volunteers and a large number of guest presenters and trainers.
Community leaders in regional Victoria play an increasingly important role in identifying community needs, advocating for resources, and delivering services through local community groups in partnership with local councils and other organisations.
The Labor Government is also providing $20 million over four years to help deliver Victoria’s Regional Statement, which has identified the need for enhancing regional leadership and giving regional communities a greater voice.
The Regional Statement includes the development of nine new Regional Partnerships, a new model for governance that will give regional communities a stronger voice in State Government by driving rural and regional issues straight into the heart of decision making.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Industrial Relations and Local Government Natalie Hutchins
“The Committee for Geelong Leadership Program is a great way to empower local leaders so that local issues are properly explored and addressed.”
“We understand that every region is different. That’s why we’re supporting the Geelong Community Leadership Program, which empowers local residents to advocate on behalf of the issues that matter most to them.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“Supporting community leaders is a vital part of developing connected, resilient and thriving communities now and in the future. The Committee for Geelong Leadership Program is an important part of strengthening the voice of regional communities.”