Works are set to begin on a community infrastructure project in Geelong thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Local Government, Melissa Horne, will today visit Geelong's Armstrong Creek to officially break ground on the $20.4 million Armstrong Creek Library and Community Hub.
The centre will be constructed in collaboration with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation to ensure the design respects and embraces the area's Wadawurrung cultural heritage.
The hub will include spaces for co-working, children's and youth programs, and meeting rooms. Gender neutral areas that meet accessibility needs will also provide an inclusive space for the whole community to enjoy.
For Wadawurrung Traditional Owners the site was historically a central gathering place for the First Nations clans to discuss shared interests, trade and socialise.
The proposed Living Water design will show how vital water is to the wellbeing of all species connected to Country, and the Wadawurrung language will be embedded throughout the building's design.
Through the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program the Labor Government invested $1.5 million to support the project, creating jobs and helping deliver a state-of-the-art library for a growing community.
The Living Libraries Infrastructure Program supports local governments and regional library corporations to deliver new or renewed library infrastructure, advancing the role of libraries in strengthening local communities.
The Labor Government has invested more than $47.1 million dollars over the last eight years into 120 library infrastructure projects for a combined total investment with local councils of $345.8 million.
More information on the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program is available at localgovernment.vic.gov.au/grants.
As stated by the Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne
"The Labor Government is investing in libraries that bring people of all generations together, creating spaces for communities to build meaningful connections and a life-long love of learning."
"Working collaboratively with the Traditional Owners of the land is vital to recognising the living cultural significance of this site."
As stated by Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman
"The number of families with children has almost tripled in Armstrong Creek in the last four years, that's why this Government is doing what matters and delivering a state-of-the-art library and community hub."
