Funding for social inclusion and mental wellbeing initiatives

Published on 19 August 2024

The City of Whittlesea has welcomed news of funding from the Victorian Government aimed at enhancing mental health and wellbeing. This funding, part of a broader state-wide initiative, will help establish a Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG) in the City of Whittlesea.  

This SIAG will be led by community members and will focus on understanding local needs and exploring ways to improve social connections and inclusion.  

As one of five councils selected in the second phase of the SIAG roll-out, this initiative is particularly important for the City of Whittlesea. A recent Council survey revealed more than 30 percent of adults and more than 50 percent of young people reported feeling lonely in the past week.  

Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said this funding would help establish this important group. 

“This injection of funding is of the utmost importance at the grass roots level. A local Social Inclusion Action Group will allow our community to take the lead in terms of what will work locally to improve social connections and mental health and wellbeing,” Lydia said. 

“These groups are built by the community, for the community. Local people are best placed to understand the unique needs of the community and drive effective social connection and participation.” 

The City of Whittlesea SIAG will be supported by a Council coordinator and will include members representing the diverse backgrounds and life experiences of the local community. This group will work collaboratively to identify local needs and gaps in social connection and inclusion and develop initiatives to encourage community participation. 

The City of Whittlesea will soon open an expression of interest process to invite community to join the SIAG, ensuring that the group reflects the diversity of our community.   

This initiative is a significant step in Council’s ongoing efforts to support mental health and wellbeing in our community.