Creative solutions in disadvantaged communities come from partnerships between all levels of government, business and community groups. The City of Hume's determined community is beginning to reap the rewards in Australia.
Broadmeadows, a suburb in the City of Hume (Victoria, Australia), was once described to the chairman of the local Social Justice and Safe City Taskforce as "the biggest failure in a generation of government because of the lack of co-ordination between departments to build the required social infrastructure". Innovative partnerships and funding sources, community determination and a focus on "encouraging a culture of excellence and achievement in education, providing greater employment opportunities and instilling local pride" have underpinned this community's redevelopment. The results include a Global Learning Village with a multi-branch public library, and a maternal and child care centre with an internet cafe so that mums can learn computer skills and help teach their children. Creative partnerships have also developed, for example using a football club to communicate with "young men who would otherwise not go near a library", a bank providing not-for-profit financial advice to residents, and encouragement for local employment of trainees.
Thanks to Charlotte Fitzgerald
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