Future community leaders living in Victoria’s north-east are set to enjoy the benefits of the Alpine Valley’s Community Leadership Program (AVCLP) thanks to over $700,000 in funding from the Andrews Labor Government.
The program works to create strong regional leaders by helping participants’ explore the region’s issues, enhancing their leadership skills and building networks with community and business leaders.
Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford today announced the Labor Government’s investment in the program, which will enable its continued delivery over the next four years.
AVCLP has delivered fifteen annual programs since it was first initiated by community members in 1998 and is set to welcome the latest round of graduates this month.
Over the next four years, the $1,072,000 program will grow the range of leadership opportunities it offers, including a range of master classes for accomplished leaders and the AVCLP Alumni.
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 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 by driving rural and regional issues straight into the heart of State Government decision making.
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 Alpine Valleys Community Leadership Program is an important part of strengthening the voice of regional communities.”
“We understand that every region is different. That’s why we’re supporting the Alpine Valleys Community Leadership Program, which empowers local residents to advocate on behalf of the issues that matter most to them.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“The Alpine Valleys Community Leadership Program is a great way to empower local leaders so that local issues are properly understood and addressed.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020