Nillumbik's first dedicated youth hub is set to open in Diamond Creek in the coming months.
On Friday, Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman and Member for Eltham Vicki Ward joined councillors and local students to officially turn the first sod for the project. The Youth Hub has been jointly funded by Council ($706,000), the Victorian Government ($300,000), and the Federal Government's Local Roads and Infrastructure Program ($155,000).
The need for a dedicated youth space was identified as a key priority at the inaugural Nillumbik Youth Summit in 2022.
Mayor Ben Ramcharan said the Nillumbik Youth Hub has been tailored to the needs of young people.
"This will be a modern, accessible facility with indoor and outdoor spaces that will welcome all young people aged 12-25," Cr Ramcharan said.
"Young people and other community members shared their ideas and thoughts on what they wanted in a youth hub, and these suggestions have been incorporated into the design and service offering," Cr Ramcharan said.
Ellis Ward Councillor Peter Perkins said the hub will provide a vital resource for the community's youth.
"Located in the heart of Diamond Creek and nearby public transport, the youth hub will be conveniently located for the Shire's young people, whether they walk, drive, cycle or catch the train," Cr Perkins said.
Nillumbik Youth Council Mayor Orianna Edmonds said the project has been designed with young people, for young people.
"The Nillumbik Youth Hub will be a safe and welcoming environment and provide essential services and programs. It will be a place where the Shire's youth can have their voices and ideas heard," Ms Edmonds said.
The site for the youth hub is the former Senior Citizens Centre in Elizabeth Street. The refurbished building will feature a new kitchen and flooring, a large multi-purpose room and two smaller program rooms, an office space, two consulting rooms, and a new outdoor covered area with an amphitheatre, yarning circle, seating and landscaping.
It will host a range of services, be staffed by Council's Youth team and respond to the feedback and input of the young people using its services, as well as families and service providers.
