Neighbourhood community development
Where we live and our local connections are vital for our health and wellbeing. Find out what initiatives we have in place.
More than ever where we live and our local connections are vital for our health and wellbeing.
Council is committed to working with citizens and communities in local neighbourhood to:
- strengthen connections of support and solidarity between people
- improve local social, cultural and economic resources, services and opportunities for all
- speak up and advocate for each other and together on matters important locally
- challenge attitudes and actions that discriminate and violate people’s human right
- improve the health and wellbeing outcomes of residents
Darebin - an overview of disadvantage(PDF, 2MB) across the municipality draws together census statistics on the population groups identified as most vulnerable to disadvantage and the key characteristics /indicators understood to contribute to local areas of disadvantage within the municipality.
Council has prioritised East Reservoir and East Preston neighbourhoods in recognition of significant indicators of social and economic disadvantage and health inequities. Council also recognises the skills, energy and commitment of local residents to work together. Council supports the ongoing development and actions of two local community actions groups, East Preston Action Group and East Reservoir Neighbours for Change. Both groups welcome residents to take an active part in these local neighbourhood groups and networks.
East Preston Action Group (EPAG)
Over the past five years (EPAG) and Council, working together have achieved the following:
- Advocacy for Council support, funding and development of the East Preston Community Centre
- The delivery of community events at the Northland Shopping, the Darebin Creek and the Greenbelt Parklands which included Family Movie Nights and Clean Up Australia Day events
- The group has been instrumental in advocating for better roads, access to transport and improved footpaths in the area
If you’re a local East Preston resident and you’re interested in joining or for further information, please contact Council’s Community Development Officer.
Email: Faten.Mohamed@darebin.vic.gov.au
Phone: 03 8470 8552
East Reservoir Neighbours for Change (ERNfC)
Over the past five years ERNfC and Council, working together have achieved some of the following community events and advocacy:
- “Food is Free”, which focused on sharing food and gardening skills between local residents
- Community Food Sharing Festival
- Developed and carried out Learning Skills for Community Projects course
- Community Welcome Dinner and Picnics
- Community conversation to show our respect & support with people who experience homelessness
- road safety advocacy on Boldrewood Parade
- For community safety initiatives, including two local murals, improved lighting at T.W. Andrews Reserve and community arts and seating project
If you’re a local East Reservoir resident and you’re interested in joining or for further information, please contact Council’s Community Development Officer.
Email: Jackie.Mansourian@darebin.vic.gov.au
Phone: 03 8470 8219