The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien says the Allan Labor Government’s wasteful spending habits is putting the future of Gippsland’s Neighbourhood Houses at risk.
Mr O’Brien said Neighbourhood Houses Victoria has warned that without an additional $11.7 million in annual state funding, around half of the state’s 400 Neighbourhood Houses could be forced to cut programs, reduce staff, or close their doors altogether.
“Early last year I wrote to the Minister for Carers and Volunteers seeking a commitment of better support for our Neighbourhood Houses,” Mr O’Brien said.
“It’s extremely disappointing that, more than a year on, our houses are still having to plead for basic support just to keep doing the essential work they do in our communities.”
Mr O’Brien said the Allan Labor Government’s misplaced priorities were on full display, with millions wasted while key community services struggle to survive.
“The Allan Labor Government found $13 million for machete bins but can’t find $11.7 million to support the Neighbourhood Houses that help more than 185,000 Victorians every week.
“These vital community hubs support thousands of Gippslanders every week with food relief, advice, technology help and even the basic human need of connection.”
Mr O’Brien praised local Neighbourhood Houses for taking part in a statewide campaign to send postcards to the Minister, making sure she understands just how important these services are to our communities.
“These are the services that hold our communities together.
“Instead of wasting money on political stunts, the Allan Labor Government should be investing in the services that actually change lives.”
“The Allan Labor Government can’t manage money, and it is Gippslanders who are paying the price.”