SOCIAL isolation will worsen among Melton’s rising number of migrants and unemployed residents unless the state government helps the region’s only volunteer agency, its leaders have warned.
Volunteer West could be forced to close next year if it fails to secure permanent funding.
The Altona-based organisation provides volunteer training, referrals and advocacy across Wyndham, Melton, Maribyrnong, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay and Moonee Valley.
General manager Emma Sharp said the organisation relied on federal funding, but there had been no commitment beyond this financial year.
With a looming federal election and a potential change in government fanning fears that funding could be slashed, Volunteer West has called on the state government to stump up its share and recognise that it relies on the centre for a critical service in the western suburbs where government supports are being outstripped by growth.
“Volunteering is not just a nice thing that happens in the community, it is actually quite vital, especially for people who are socially isolated,” Ms Sharp said.
Unemployment in parts of Melton has increased to 11.3 per cent, almost double the national average, while one in five young people in the western suburbs can’t find a job.
Ms Sharp said volunteering provided pathways to gain skills. She said many migrants wanted to volunteer so they could learn English.
Western Metropolitan Liberal MP Bernie Finn called on Community Services Minister Mary Wooldridge to meet with Volunteer West with a view to support the organisation.
