The Department of Families Fairness and Housing (DFFH) have engaged Cardinia Shire Council (CSC) to undertake research into what the community of Emerald wishes to have in a new community centre/neighbourhood house including its services and programs.

• Neighbourhood houses/community centres are not-for-profit, incorporated, community organisations managed by a service provider or volunteers through a committee of management and run by paid coordinators.
• They can provide a range of services, information and resources for their local community. These may include children’s services, cultural, social, health and wellbeing activities, delivery of training, and public internet access.
• Course and program costs are kept as low as possible to encourage community participation.
• Each centre offers a program unique to the community needs. The program can be unique to different sections of the community such as pre-school, school aged, parents and retirees.

DFFH fund neighbourhood houses to be not-for-profit centres for people of all abilities, backgrounds and ages. Places where community members come to:

• meet, chat and make friends
• develop new skills, transition to work and further study
• become involved in community events, volunteer
• find out about other services or activities in the area
• join a class or support group or take up an activity for fun and enjoyment.

The new neighbourhood house will be located a suitable council owned location.

DFFH will manage an Expression of Interest opportunity.

The new neighbourhood house will open in February 2025.

A neighbourhood house is guided by a community development approach, they each engage and respond to the needs and priorities of the communities they serve.