About Us

Geelong West Neighbourhod House was born on October 15, 2009. Its formation was driven by a desire to connect, learn and contribute to the local community through social, educational, recreational and supportive activities. Tireless lobbying of local and state government representatives and officials over a 5 year period finally came to fruition.  

The City of Greater Geelong responded and called a meeting of interested people and parties, and plans were made to hold a public meeting. 

On October 15 2009, 60 people attended and from this a Steering Committee of volunteers was formed, but with no funding and no physical home. 

Activities, classes and workshops with an emphasis on health, creativity and sustainability began a year later in various hired facilities around Geelong West. 

Driven by its success, GWNH involved itself in community events and was supported by local businesses, organisations and COGG. 

After 10 years the important role of GWNH in the life of the community was recognised. State Government funding enabled a Coordinator’s position and the house finally found a home here at West Park. 

GWNH is a success story achieved through persistence, hard work and the goodwill of community members working together for the greater good. 

 

We welcome your participation—follow our Facebook page and connect with us online! 

What is a Neighbourhood House?

Neighbourhood Houses are part of a social movement that begin in the 1970s. The movement now represents close to 400 independent, community-based organisations across Victoria, and is dedicated to empowering people to unite and achieve community goals.

Neighbourhood Houses are special because they are owned and managed by the local community, for the local community. Everyone involved has a voice and can take part in decision-making.

Neighbourhood Houses have a unique and welcoming atmosphere. They are places where everyone is invited to connect, build friendships, engage in community life, and share in learning together

Neighbourhood Houses differ from one another, because they are flexible and diverse in their delivery, responding to the needs of their communities at any given time. They collaborate with other community organisations to enhance the quality of life for local residents.

If you have a suggestion, we’d love to hear it! You can email, call, drop in for a chat, or share your thoughts by dropping a note in our suggestion box.

Have a complaint or concern? You can request a copy of our policy by emailing info@gwnh.org.au or asking at the office.

Membership

We are offering membership to the Neighbourhood House for the upcoming year. Membership entitles you to receive special invitations to events, such as our upcoming launch of our renovations, and to have a vote or stand for committee at our AGM. It also supports our house to meet it’s obligations. Membership is now only $2 per year . See the office for details and a form.

Contact Us

For more information please contact us by using the form on our contact page, or by one of the methods below:

Phone:
(03) 5270 2400

Email:
info@gwnh.org.au

Mail:
89 Autumn St,
Geelong West, 3218
Victoria, Australia

Registration Number: A0056531V

Socials:

Public Access at GWNH - Animals

At GWNH, we respect and comply with public access rights for Assistance Dogs.

Assistance dogs are not to be confused with a therapy, emotional support or companion dogs. All dogs can intrinsically provide emotional support to a human being.

Assistance Dogs (including guide, hearing, or service dogs) are specially trained to perform tasks that support a person with a disability, helping to improve independence and quality of life.

Please note:

  • Assistance Dogs have public access rights.
  • Non-Assistance Animals—including therapy dogs, emotional support animals, companion dogs, and pets—are not permitted inside GWNH facilities.

For more information about Assistance Dogs and their public access rights, please visit:

2024 Annual General Meeting

Geelong West Neighbourhood House held their 2024 AGM on 21st October. Please find the agenda, minutes and annual reports below.

Our 2025 AGM will be held on Monday 18th August at 5pm. 

Read more about the 2024 AGM here

GWNH Strategic Plan 2024-2027

The GWNH Strategic Plan outlines our priorities for the 2024-2027 period, focusing on four key themes: welcoming, belonging, partnerships, and growth. These priorities align closely with our organisation’s vision and mission of fostering strong, connected communities.
GWNH policies and procedures are available upon request.

View our 2024-2027 Strategic Plan