NATIONALS PUSH FOR INCREASED NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE FUNDS

The Nationals' Education and Training spokesman, Gippsland MP Peter Hall, is continuing to push for increased funding for neighbourhood houses across Victoria.

Mr Hall raised the matter in Parliament this week, seeking a commitment from the Local Government Minister for an increase in recurrent funding for neighbourhood houses.

Part of what Mr Hall has requested is an increase in coordination program funding, from the current average of 17.8 hours of coordination time to what Mr Hall describes as a more realistic 35 hours, as recommended by the association of neighbourhood houses and learning centres.

Mr Hall also questioned why, given the importance of neighbourhood houses and learning centres, there was a complete lack of any reference to neighbourhood houses in the provincial policy released by the government this week.

Outside Parliament, Mr Hall said he was disappointed with the Minister's vague response, which was only that increased funding would be considered in the next budget.

"The Association of Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres has presented a budget submission seeking an increase in recurrent funding of $84 million over five years, which would provide Neighbourhood Houses with a realistic amount to support the work they do," Mr Hall said.

"That funding increase would enable neighbourhood houses and learning centres to fill the very real need of providing affordable programs for many individuals and communities."

The Nationals describe as "meagre" the $12.4 million increase offered over four years for the sector.

"There are real long term benefits to the Victorian community, especially in country areas, of having a well resourced and well managed neighbourhood house and learning centre sector.

"The Nationals support the request for an increase in funding of $84 million over five years because we believe it will provide an excellent return for the community."

Media contact: Peter Hall's office (03) 5174 7066