New neighbourhood house provider for Emerald

Fernlea Community Care has been awarded the tender for the State Government’s Neighbourhood House Coordination Program (NHCP) in Emerald for the next 2 years following an open tender process undertaken by the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH).

Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik said the announcement was great news for the community.

“Cardinia Shire Council has been working closely with DFFH to transition to a new neighbourhood house service in Emerald, and we’re delighted that a new service provider has been selected to deliver neighbourhood house services to the community of Emerald and surrounding areas,” Mayor Kowarzik said.

“Council supports neighbourhood houses funded by the State Government’s NHCP in line with our Neighbourhood House Policy, so we look forward to supporting Fernlea Community Care to deliver the neighbourhood house program in Emerald.

“We remain committed to working with DFFH and the new service provider to ensure a smooth transition to the new service.”

The location of the new service will be announced once details have been finalised.

Ranges Ward Councillor David Nickell thanked the committee and staff from the former community house service provider for their contribution.

“I would like to acknowledge the many years of hard work and dedication of the committee members and staff from the former community house in Emerald, and wish them the best for their future endeavours,” Cr Nickell said.

“Thank you for your many contributions and long-standing support for the local community, it has been greatly appreciated.”

Cardinia Shire has 8 neighbourhood houses that are funded under the NHCP located across the shire.  These services are managed by service providers or volunteer committees. The not-for-profit community organisations provide a range of services, information and resources to their local communities, including cultural, social, health and wellbeing activities, children’s services, training delivery and public internet access. 

For more information, please visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/neighbourhoodhouses