Campaspe Shire Council, Njernda Aboriginal Corporation and Echuca Regional Health are joining forces through the Campaspe Coalition to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for young people across Campaspe.
Recognising the importance of self-determination, cultural knowledge and community leadership in improving outcomes for young people, the coalition is Aboriginal-led through Njernda Aboriginal Corporation. The coalition has been selected as one of six community coalitions funded through VicHealth’s $21 million Partners in Place program – a long-term place-based prevention initiative, supporting communities to address the local conditions that influence health and wellbeing. The statewide initiative includes 23 partnerships across Victoria, comprising 17 rural and regional councils and six community coalitions.
The Campaspe Coalition has secured $600,000 for its first two years, with the potential for a further $900,000 over the following three years, subject to VicHealth approval. This could bring the total investment to $1.5 million over five years.
The initial funding will support the establishment of the coalition, community engagement, systems mapping and strategic planning. This work will identify local priorities and lay the groundwork for long-term improvements to youth health and wellbeing. By working with young people, schools, services and community organisations, the coalition will better understand the factors shaping local health outcomes and identify opportunities for coordinated, lasting change.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Cr Daniel Mackrell said the funding was a significant investment in the future of young people across the shire.
“Young people’s health and wellbeing are shaped by the places where they live, learn and connect, as well as the opportunities and support available to them.
“This funding gives local organisations, community leaders and young people the opportunity to work together on practical, locally led solutions that respond to the needs of our community,” Cr Mackrell said.
Focusing on young people aged 10 to 24, the initiative will tackle the social, commercial and economic factors influencing health and wellbeing, including exposure to harmful products and environments. Young people will help shape the coalition’s priorities, ensuring action is guided by local lived experience and community needs.
Cr Mackrell said Council was proud to support the partnership, noting Njernda Aboriginal Corporation’s leadership will be central to this work, ensuring First Peoples voices, cultural knowledge and community priorities help guide the coalition’s direction.
“Council is proud to contribute as the auspice organisation and a strategic partner, working alongside Njernda, Echuca Regional Health and other local organisations to support lasting improvements for young people across Campaspe,” said the mayor.
The coalition brings together local government, health and education services, community organisations and community leaders. Its members include Njernda Aboriginal Corporation, Campaspe Shire Council, Echuca Regional Health and headspace, the Loddon Mallee Public Health Unit, Echuca College, St Joseph’s College Echuca, Echuca Police, Kyabram District Health Service and Echuca East Primary School.
