New computer systems for Neighbourhood Houses across Goulburn North East will make community connection easier, thanks to a Brumby Labor Government funding boost.
Member for Northern Victoria Region, Candy Broad launched the Goulburn North East Association of Community Centres (GNEACC) Online project in Mooroopna today.
“The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to improve the communication capabilities of Neighbourhood Houses, which we know are so important in sharing information across our local communities,” Ms Broad said.
“We understand how important Neighbourhood Centres are to communities, so it’s pleasing that this online project will help bring the 23 Neighbourhood Houses across the region in to the 21st century.”
The Brumby Labor Government will provide more than $13,400 through a Modernising Neighbourhood Houses Program grant for the project.
“The funding will be used to upgrade information and communications technology across the Goulburn North East Association of Community Centres Network,” Ms Broad said.
“The upgrades will give users the ability to have online conferences, which will reduce travel time and cost.
“The project will make doing business easier, improve back-up systems to keep files and information safe and secure, increase storage capacity and provide ongoing training for the 50 staff and 200 committee members and volunteers who work at these Houses.
“But the community will benefit most from these improvements through better access to information and services.”
Ms Broad said X17 Pty Ltd and Mediart had provided in-kind support for the project.
Local Government Minister, Richard Wynne said the project was a good example of what was possible when community organisations and governments worked together with local people on innovative solutions to local challenges.
“We see investment in Neighbourhood Houses as an opportunity to help Victorians reduce disadvantage by bringing people together with strong networks,” Mr Wynne said.
“This is particularly important in regional Victoria, where communities are often separated by great distance but united by a need for connection, and Neighbourhood Houses are well placed to address that need.”
The Modernising Neighbourhood House Program grants were a four-year, $12.5 million investment to help upgrade, redevelop or improve existing facilities to deliver the best results for local people.
For more information on grant programs across Victoria, please visit www.dpcd.vic.gov.au