Feasibility Study for a First Nations Community Space in the City of Greater Dandenong

The project was funded by the Greater Dandenong City Council (GDCC)

Who funded the project

 

The project’s primary aim was to understand the needs and aspirations of First Nations people living in the City of Greater Dandenong, and to determine the feasibility of establishing a First Nations community space in the region.

To assist with the project aims, we conducted a literature review, developed online surveys - both targeted and public - and undertook several semi-structured phone interviews with key stakeholders in Victoria.

A report, including recommendations drawn from our consultations, was delivered to the Greater Dandenong City Council.

Summary

 

The project aimed to:

  • understand the needs and aspirations of First Nations peoples living in the Greater Dandenong region;

  • assess the need for a First Nations community space;

  • examine the options and types of preferred community spaces; and

  • assess whether existing community spaces in the local area meet the needs of the First Nations community in Greater Dandenong.

 

Project aims

 

The consultation process involved conducting online surveys and semi-structured phone interviews. The online and remote approach to the consultations was due to COVID-19 restrictions in Victoria.

Stakeholder groups consulted were:

  • Residents of the City of Greater Dandenong and surrounding Local Government Areas;

  • City councils;

  • Local Registered Aboriginal Parties;

  • Service providers;

  • State government agencies; and

  • Relevant peak bodies.

Additionally, we conducted a literature review exploring:

  • the effects that community spaces have on the health and wellbeing of the First Nations community in Victoria;

  • the different types of community spaces (specifically looking at governance and funding); and

  • six community spaces across Victoria including an analysis of their operations and offerings.

Methodologies

 

We delivered a final report to the Greater Dandenong City Council and Professor Kerry Arabena will present the findings at the Council meeting in early September 2021

Outputs

 

Gathering Place, Community Space, Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, health and wellbeing, First Nations Community, sustainable funding, culture, education, healing, connecting, social, emotional, together, City of Greater Dandenong

Keywords

Kerry Arabena