FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the common questions we get asked about neighbourhood houses and the sector. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, contact us.
What services do Neighbourhood Houses provide?
Every Neighbourhood House is different and will provide different services and activities based on the needs of the community they are situated in.
Some services you will find at a Ararat Neighbourhood House include:
- Adult education, art and craft classes, digital literacy training, and more!
- Community events, lunches, and social eating groups
- Food banks
- Health and wellbeing activities such as exercise, walking groups, yoga and tai chi classes
- Migrant support programs e.g. english classes
- Room hire
- Self help and support groups, seniors’ groups
Plus much more!
How do I volunteer at a Neighbourhood House?
There are over 6,900 people who volunteer at Neighbourhood Houses across Victoria. Their duties could range from assisting with arts classes, to cooking meals, to office admin.
If you’re interested in getting involved at Ararat Neighbourhood House, click the link to download a Membership Application form.
How are Neighbourhood Houses funded?
The State Government’s Department of Families, Fairness and Housing provides core funding to more than 95 per cent of Victoria’s Neighbourhood Houses through the Neighbourhood House Coordination Program.
Other sources of income may include the Department of Education and Training, Local Government, Federal Government, grants, and funds generated by Neighbourhood Houses themselves (e.g. room hire fees).
Do Neighbourhood Houses have paid staff or is it all volunteer based?
At the very least, each Neighbourhood House employs a Manager/Coordinator who is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the house. Depending on the size of the organisation, the paid workforce of a single Neighbourhood House could vary from one to dozens!
The Neighbourhood House sector employs over 5,000 people across the state.
Volunteers play a massive role however. Without them, many services and activities simply wouldn’t occur.
How are Neighbourhood Houses governed?
The vast majority (86%) of Neighbourhood Houses are incorporated associations with a committee / board of governance.
You can meet our Managers and Board at our Team Page.
Does the Neighbourhood Houses Victoria have authority over individual Neighbourhood Houses?
The quick and simple answer is no. As a peak body, it is their job to support and promote best practice, provide informed advice and advocate on behalf of the sector, however each Neighbourhood House, including Ararat Neighbourhood House, is its own separate entity with its own autonomy.
How do I raise a concern or make a complaint?
We’re here to help! If you have any complaints or concerns, please visit our Contact Page and let us know how we can assist you. Your feedback is important to us!