Reducing social isolation vital for creating thriving communities

The Palaszczuk Government is set to boost it's investment in reducing social isolation, providing one-off funding of $100,000 for an initiative in a south-east Queensland community centre.

Acting Minister for Communities Shannon Fentiman today (7 November) announced the Palaszczuk Government would provide an extra $100,000 in funding to the Mount Gravatt Community Centre as part of a proposal to address social isolation.

“We know that social isolation can be experienced by people of all ages in Queensland communities and can lead to significant mental health issues – including depression and suicide,” Ms Fentiman said.

“By building individual resilience and community capacity to address social isolation, we can support individuals and communities to thrive and prevent unnecessary reliance on primary, secondary and in some cases tertiary health care.

“The Mount Gravatt Community Alliance Working Group’s proposal to address social isolation aligns strongly with the Palaszczuk Government’s Advancing Queensland’s Priorities, particularly the Keep Queenslanders Healthy priority.”

Member for Mansfield Corrine McMillan said this initiative would be the first of its kind in Australia.

“This initiative will help us learn how to better respond to social isolation and loneliness in Mt Gravatt and the surrounding community,” Ms McMillan said.

“That’s why I am pleased that the Palaszczuk Government is funding this important initiative at the Mt Gravatt Community Centre, as we know how important a strong connection with community is, particularly for those who are vulnerable.”

The additional investment is on top of the funding the Palaszczuk Government provides to 124 neighbourhood and community centres across the state.

Ms Fentiman said the additional funding for reducing social isolation was another example of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to creating thriving communities.

“Every Queenslander deserves to live in thriving communities where people regardless of their personal circumstances can participate in their community, be resilient and enjoy social and economic wellbeing,” she said.

“The state’s neighbourhood and community centres play a significant role in supporting Queensland communities to thrive.

“We’re supporting vital community building efforts and building on current investment to improve the resilience and capability of local communities to deliver local solutions to local issues.”

For more information about Queensland’s neighbourhood and community centres, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/community/your-home-community/groups-in-your-community/neighbourhood-community-centres.

ENDS

Media Contact: Benjamin Mulcahy 0419 562 389