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Goranwarrabul House petition tabled in parliament by state Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland

By Contributed

Nov 29, 2024

Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has presented a petition to parliament calling for funding for Goranwarrabul House. Photo by Faith Macale

A petition requesting funding to ensure Goranwarrabul House in Seymour can reopen has been officially tabled in parliament by state Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland.

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Before being closed due to a lack of funding, Goranwarrabul House had been vital to providing First Nations people of the Lower Hume region with health services, support and care.

At least 45 families were relying on Goranwarrabul House for food support each week, with over 100 people attending services each week and benefiting from the facility’s court and legal support, medical support, cultural support, referrals and transport options.

The tabled e-petition received nearly 400 signatures to go alongside over 1000 signatures in written form and on websites such as change.org

Ms Cleeland, who was a sponsor of the petition, said it was pleasing to have the efforts of the community recognised in parliament.

“Our community has made it clear they want this crucial meeting place to reopen, and I thank everyone that signed this petition,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Now that it has been tabled, the petition has been officially recorded by the Parliament of Victoria and will be sent to the relevant ministers.

“This will ensure that the advocacy from our community is heard.

“If this government is genuine in their attempt to close the gap, then supporting community-based organisations like Goranwarrabul House would be a fantastic first step.”