Financial strain is putting Macedon Ranges’ Neighbourhood Houses at risk of closure and threatening the vital programs they provide.
After years of inadequate funding, almost half of Victoria’s houses have been forced to operate at a loss for two consecutive years, according to Neighbourhood House Victoria data.
NHV said the Neighbourhood House Coordination Program — the main source of state government funding — simply didn’t meet the real cost of running these centres.
Now NHV has launched the ‘Keep Our Doors Open’ campaign, calling on the Victorian Government to boost NHCP funding by 25 per cent in the 2026 Budget.
Kyneton Community House is just one of those that has been running at a loss for the past two years and pushing for change.
“Neighbourhood and community houses change lives every day — providing food relief, skills training and a sense of belonging,” KCH CEO Claire Rawlinson said.
“We’re powered by passion, but passion alone can’t keep the lights on. With fair funding, we can continue to be there for everyone who needs us.”
Across the Macedon electorate, eight neighbourhood houses have been at the heart of local life — offering food, friendship and opportunities for learning and connection.
Over the past year, these community hubs delivered 5002 sessions, welcomed 37,920 visits, and supported 76 community groups.
Their contribution goes far beyond programs and events. Together, Macedon’s neighbourhood houses distributed more than 113,700 kilograms of food relief, helping local families put meals on the table when times were tough.
It’s all made possible by people — 403 volunteers who dedicate their time and energy, backing 347 local jobs and strengthening the social fabric of local towns.
For every dollar invested, neighbourhood houses return $5.20 in community value, delivering an estimated $13.9 million in benefit to the region in 2024, according to NHV data.
Without increased support, many programs face cuts — and some neighbourhood houses may be forced to close their doors.
“No neighbourhood house wants to close programs,” Ms Rawlinson said, “we want to expand them.”
To support your local neighbourhood or community house, community members are encouraged to share what they love about their local with postcards that will help support the campaign.
To find out how you can get involved, visit your local neighbourhood or community house and ask how you can help to #KeepOurDoorsOpen.
