The 2026-27 Budget has brought forward a $2.33 million investment into the Community Connector Program run by Neighbourhood Houses.

Minister for Community and Multicultural Affairs, Madeleine Ogilvie, said investment in the Community Connector Program, originally allocated for 2027-28, is being made available this financial year.

“The Community Connector Program helps our Neighbourhood Houses to connect Tasmanians to services and supports,” Minister Ogilvie said.

“This additional funding allocation means $4.4 million will be made available this year.”

The increased Community Connector Program funding is included in the $55 million investment into Neighbourhood Houses across the State.

The Neighbourhood House network provides important support for place-based delivery of specialised programs and services to Tasmanians.

“Our Neighbourhood Houses are pillars of healthy, supportive and inclusive communities, playing an important role with support and cost of living pressures," Minister Ogilvie said.

“The 2026-27 Budget will invest $46.7 million in our 34 Neighbourhood Houses, as well as $6 million for the Neighbourhood Houses Capital Improvement Program and $1.98 million for the peak body Neighbourhood Houses Tasmania Inc over the Forward Estimates."

Minister Ogilvie also welcomed the newest House HATCH - Health Action Team Central Highlands at Ouse – which will be recognised for the first time.

“This is a clear demonstration of our investment into delivering for Tasmania – we are getting on with the job and building a strong economy and caring economy," Minister Ogilvie said.

“The Budget is a tough one – recognising our nation, and the world, are facing turbulent times.

“It prioritises frontline services, like our Neighbourhood Houses, while making the savings needed to return to a balanced budget sooner.”