New Neighbourhood Centre building one step closer, work underway in Manunda

• New Neighbourhood Centre building in Cairns due to be completed in the latter half of 2024 following a $3.8 million investment.
• Construction of the new centre re-affirms the Miles Government’s commitment to support Queensland’s 128 Neighbourhood Centres to provide local community-led responses and critical social infrastructure. 
• The fit-for-purpose centre will provide universal access for all members of the community, increasing opportunities to provide inclusive programs.

Members of the Cairns community are one step closer to a fit-for-purpose Neighbourhood Centre with works underway to build a new centre in Manunda.

The existing Neighbourhood Centre building on Birch Street, which has served the community since 1999, no longer met the increasing needs of the growing community and a new fit for purpose centre was needed.

The old building has since been demolished and the constructing of a new, fit-for-purpose building on the existing site would enable the continued and improved delivery of Neighbourhood Centre services for the Manunda community.

The Miles Government has worked closely with the Neighbourhood Centre service provider, UnitingCare Community, to ensure there is minimal disruption to community members while the new centre is being built.

The Neighbourhood Centre programs and services, including emergency relief, homelessness support, financial and psychosocial programs and support are continuing at 127 Anderson Street, Manunda until the new centre is completed.

Quotes attributable to Minister Leeanne Enoch:

“This $3.8 million investment will deliver a brand new fit for purpose and accessible community centre for the Cairns community.

"The new building will provide a modern accessible hub which will improve UnitingCares delivery of its critical services and programs to people who need it the most.

"The Miles Government is committed to investing in the Queensland community and is providing over $74.9 million over the next four years to fund Neighbourhood Centres across Queensland.

“Each year, approximately two-million people access Neighbourhood Centres right across the state and we will continue to increase the accessibility of these centres as they are a welcoming entry point for many people to access programs, support and assistance when they need it most.”

“Access to high quality community, psychosocial, financial and personal support is critical to help people to get through the tough times and start to thrive.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Cairns, Michael Healy, Minister for Tourism and Sport:

“Community centres are the cornerstones of their communities, helping to meet the needs of Queenslanders, supporting people in times of crisis and addressing issues such as loneliness and social isolation,” Minister Healy said.

“This improved physical infrastructure provides a trusted public space that all community members can visit, providing dignity, safety and a place to connect, and be supported.” 

“We need to meet the growing needs of our community, and this new building will future proof the services and supports we offer the Cairns community.”

ENDS

Media contact – Tim Auguston 0427 090 563