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Nationals promise $10m boost for community houses

By Cobram Courier

Sep 28, 2026

Tim McCurdy outside parliament with some of the postcards received from neighbourhood houses, begging to keep their doors open. Photo by Supplied

The Nationals say that if elected at the November Victorian election, community and neighbourhood houses across Ovens Valley will benefit from a $10 million funding commitment.

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The funding will help local organisations continue providing vital support, connection and practical assistance to people across regional Victoria.

State Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy said the commitment would provide $4 million in additional recurring funding for existing neighbourhood houses, alongside a new $6 million growth fund to establish or expand services in communities experiencing growing demand.

“Community houses are often the heart of a town, they are places where people can come together, access support, learn new skills, find food relief, volunteer or simply have a cuppa and a chat,” the Nationals MP said.

“The people who run these organisations understand their communities because they live in them.

“They know the challenges local families are facing and are often among the first to step up when someone needs support.

“Across Ovens Valley, community houses and their volunteers do an enormous amount with limited resources.

“This funding will help give them the certainty and capacity they need to keep their doors open and continue supporting locals.”

The commitment will provide additional ongoing funding for existing neighbourhood houses, while also extending support to houses that currently receive no state funding.

Mr McCurdy said the new $6 million growth fund would be particularly important for regional communities experiencing population growth.

He said that backing the local organisations already doing the work on the ground, rather than asking volunteers to continually do more with less, was the focus.

“Community houses have also shown just how important they are during bushfires, floods, drought and periods of financial pressure, providing a place where people can access practical help and stay connected,” Mr McCurdy said.