Community at the core for Surf Coast Shire Council
Local people's passion and knowledge about their own lives and communities underpin two commitments made by Surf Coast Shire Council.
Council adopted the revised Community Houses and Community Development policies at the February Council meeting.
Councillor Tony Phelps said the policies, which sit side-by-side, confirm Council's commitment to support communities to act on issues that are important to them.
"A community house is a great example of a local organisation that has community development at the heart of all that it does," Cr Phelps said.
"They recognise that people are experts in their own communities, so they offer a diverse range of activities and events that cater for locals and offer opportunities for them connect."
Council supports five community houses in Anglesea, Deans Marsh, Lorne, Torquay and Winchelsea. It will continue this support, which includes providing and maintaining the community house buildings and a small annual financial contribution to each House and to the regional network, Neighbourhood Houses Barwon.
"We know through a Neighbourhood Houses Victoria report that community houses in our shire provided $4.2m of community value in 2023," Cr Phelps said.
"This figure includes the value of improving quality of life through social connections, volunteer contributions, emergency relief, and other services such as early childhood education and care. It demonstrates the huge impact that community houses have in our communities."
Council will also continue its support of community-led action in adopting the Community Development Policy, investing in programs and actions to support people to participate in and contribute to their community.
"Our grants program is one community-led approach, as we provide funding that empowers individuals and groups to use their skills and interests to make the Surf Coast a better place to live and visit," Cr Phelps said.
"From town murals and community garden improvements, to sporting equipment and surfing festivals, it's fantastic to see the various ways that we've played a small role in supporting the community to make a big difference, right across the shire."
Council's next grants rounds will open Saturday 1 March. Applications will be open for Community Initiative and Natural Environment grants. To learn more, visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/grants.
