Logan locals have received a sneak peek at a new site that is being transformed into a game-changing community facility to get residents job ready in Logan Central, formed in partnership between the Queensland Government and non-profit SSI.
The Logan Economic Hub will take shape on Carmody Street with $6.756 million committed from the Queensland Government and not-for-profit community organisation SSI now co-investing up to $7.8 million towards the project, along with in-kind resources.
Last week, local community leaders, youth, employers, peak bodies, and service providers met to discuss the key challenges faced by the Logan community to help inform the Economic Hub programs and design.
Tailored support for those most in need – women, high school graduates, parents returning to the workforce, and professionals with overseas qualifications – was raised as a top priority for the region.
It is the flagship project supported through Queensland's $15 million Community Infrastructure Investment Partnership (CIIP) grants program.
Once complete, SSI's Logan Economic Hub will provide the Logan region with a facility at which a range of employment and economic-related programs and community services will be delivered, such as job readiness, job training, community connection programs, social enterprise and business incubator services.
The Logan Economic Hub is one of 13 projects across the state to benefit from the CIIP program, rolled out to accelerate Queensland's COVID-19 economic recovery.
The CIIP program was open to not-for-profit organisations to build fit-for-purpose infrastructure in response to emerging and growing local community needs.
Pending approvals, it is expected construction of the Hub will be finished in 2026.
Quotes attributable to SSI CEO Violet Roumeliotis:
"Everyone deserves the opportunity to engage in meaningful, sustainable employment. This project will help to level the playing field for job seekers and equip them with the skills and support they need to flourish.
"Delivering quality place-based services with the local community is the best way to ensure Queenslanders have the support they need to build brighter futures and harness their untapped potential.
"We welcome the opportunity to partner with the Queensland Government, along with the local community, to work hand-in-hand to ensure more people have the opportunity to realise their full potential."
Quote attributable to Elihuti Niyomungere, Burundian community leader and event organiser for the Queensland Burundian Community (QBC):
"The Logan Economic Hub will be an important place for locals who are struggling with their English Language to get support to access services and further their goals.
This is especially important for youth who are struggling with their mental and physical health, as the centre will be a place where they can talk to people who understand. The Hub will help them feel that they are not alone, and they can get support with the next stage of their life, whether that is employment or studies."
About us:
About SSI: Settlement Services International (SSI) delivers a range of human services that connect individuals, families, and children from diverse backgrounds with opportunities - including settlement support, disability programs, community engagement initiatives and training and employment pathways. At the heart of everything we do is a drive for equality, empathy, and celebration of every individual.
