According to our  Belonging in Geelong: A Social Inclusion Needs Analysis [ PDF, 5.61 MB] [ PDF, 5.61 MB] , 25 per cent of residents experience loneliness, jumping to 39 per cent for LGBTQIA+ residents, 60 per cent of young people, 61 per cent of people with long-term disability and 77 per cent of residents in mental health distress. 

Neighbourhood houses provide welcoming and inclusive spaces where people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities can access activities and support close to home.

Thanks to Council’s recently adopted 2026-27 Budget, all 14 neighbourhood houses in Greater Geelong will each receive $17,500 annually. This increase in funding, above Consumer Price Index (CPI), resulted from collaboration between the City and neighbourhood houses and totals $245,000 per year.

The multi-year approach allows for these important organisations to more easily plan, deliver and grow their programs, reducing the administrative burden from frequent funding applications and agreements.

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM 

Neighbourhood houses will be able to focus more time and resources on delivering services that directly benefit their communities.

We recognise that neighbourhood houses are important social infrastructure that strengthens community resilience and wellbeing.

The 14 houses across the region offer a diverse range of opportunities, such as food banks, short courses, volunteering, comedy workshops, family support services, meditation and children’s activities.

Our switch to multi-year funding agreements will reduce the administrative burden on these neighbourhood houses and provide more certainty for their programming.

Deputy Mayor Eddy Kontelj 

Council is committed to investing in stronger and more connected communities.

We’re providing funding to neighbourhood houses, because they create opportunities for people to put themselves out there, make new friends and upskill.

Now, more than ever, we need in-person opportunities to reduce social isolation and loneliness and create positive change.