Addressing Disadvantage

Communities in parts of the G21 region are experiencing severe disadvantage.

Residents in Colac East experience the highest levels of disadvantage in Victoria, with Norlane ranked third, Whittington 18th and Corio 26th.

The region sits below the Victorian average on some critical indicators:

• There is a very high rate of disengaged youth. (Victorian average 8.2%, in pockets of Corio this is as high as 53.6%).
• There is a high rate of low income households. (Victorian average 18.3%, in pockets of Norlane this is as high as 52.1%).
• There is a very high proportion of housing stress. (Victorian average 11.4%, in pockets of Corio this is as high as 25.7%).
• There is a higher than average unemployment rate. (Victorian average 5.2%, in pockets of Norlane this is as high as 25.3%).
• There is a higher than average youth unemployment rate. (Victorian average 12.3%, in pockets of Norlane this is as high as 75%).

Determined ongoing effort is needed to break through entrenched, inter-generational disadvantage.

Early childhood education and health services, job and skills pathways, job readiness, public transport, social and sporting activities and good quality social and affordable housing are fundamental building blocks.

What G21 needs

Funding to support vulnerable communities

• $1 million to implement the GROW Strategic Plan.
• Funding to implement Closing the Gap which uses 17 targets to address Indigenous disadvantage.

Corio and Norlane

• $10.2 million to complete Northern Bay College regeneration.
• $1.5 million for performing arts hall at Northern Bay College to service students and community.

Winchelsea

• $3.8 million to develop a second sports oval.

Bannockburn

• Local service provision either embedded or through outreach services for a range of health needs, particularly youth mental health.

A commitment to embed GROW training, employment and procurement principles in all government projects within the region.