AFTER eight years supporting the health and wellbeing of the Latrobe Valley, the Latrobe Health Assembly has formally commenced the process of closing its operations.
This comes after strong community advocacy failed to overturn the state government’s decision to cease funding the initiative.
Project partners were notified on Monday, June 23 that 27 active programs will conclude by June 30 (last Monday), with a structured wind-down process to follow.
Over this final week, the Assembly was working with all partners to ensure the most responsible and respectful transition possible for the community-led initiatives that have flourished under its care.
Across nearly a decade, the Assembly has delivered more than 200 locally-driven projects, touching the lives of over 50,000 residents across the region.
With more than $4 million invested in the local community each year and more than 1200 volunteers mobilised, the Assembly has built a lasting impact across mental health, food security, chronic disease prevention, youth engagement, early childhood development and social connection.
Programs such as the Community Health Nurses in Primary Schools, which delivered $2.3 million in health benefits; the ABC Youth Program, returning $4 for every $1 invested; and the WES, which provided over 1000 visits in a peer-led, stigma-free environment, have changed lives.
In a media release, the Assembly said the closure marked the loss of an innovative, community-first, place-based model that enabled community voice in decision making, improved health and wellbeing outcomes and demonstrated community leadership in one of Victoria’s most challenged regions.
Latrobe Health Assembly Chair, Tanya Rong said the news was indeed shattering.
“This is a moment of deep sadness and gratitude to the Latrobe Valley community for their support and advocacy,” she said.
“The Latrobe Health Assembly has been more than an organisation – it’s been a movement powered by local community voices, strong commitment to a healthier community and place, and a whole lot of heart.
“While our formal role may be ending, the legacy of our partnerships and the passion of our community will continue.”
In the coming weeks, the Assembly will work closely with project partners to identify opportunities for sustainability, seeking to transition or hand over initiatives where possible. Where continuation is not feasible, programs will close with care and community acknowledgment.
The Assembly wished to extend its heartfelt thanks to the thousands of individuals, organisations and community groups who shaped and contributed to its work. The Assembly said their dedication laid the groundwork for lasting change, and the Assembly’s legacy will live on through them.
MEANWHILE, the Gippsland Trades and Labour Council has called on the state government to urgently reconsider its decision to cut funding a number of its transition and community education programs.
Under the cuts, the GTLC stands to lose the following programs: Domestic Building & Construction, A Cup of Hospitality, Community Turf Force, Let’s Get Driving and Labouring Fundamentals.
The GTLC says it has provided support to 365 people in the community, and has 128 continuing to receive assistance.
“Since the inception of our suite of community education projects we have provided ongoing support to participants of our programs through case management, supporting them to be aspirational,” GTLC said in a media release.
“There is no greater driver for change than a community deciding what it cares about. At GTLC, and in partnership with our sector, industry and community partners, we are dedicated to helping community members discover and pursue pathways to education, training, and employment and enable meaningful change so that they live a life they value.”
