Older members of the Portland community are returning to their art, crafts and social activities with accessibility upgrades installed at the Julia Street Creative Space, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing today announced the completion of works at the centre - backed by $20,000 from the Living Local Fund.

The Julia Street Creative Space is a community-based not-for-profit art complex where members come together to produce fine art, pottery, jewellery, and wood turning among other arts and crafts.

Support from the Living Local Fund enabled the collective to install a stair-lift chair to provide access to the artist studio, more accessible chairs, hand dryers, and outdoor umbrellas to provide protection from the sun when working outside.

This project has made a big difference to the centre, which is now able to welcome members with accessibility needs.

The Living Local Fund is part of the Government’s Our Regions: Living Local Initiative which is dedicated to strengthening communities. Since 2020, the Fund has supported more than 400 projects in regional and suburban Victoria.

Local councils and community organisations received grants of up to $200,000 for infrastructure projects, while smaller investments of up to $20,000 are awarded for upgrades to community facilities.

The Living Local Fund is part of the Labor Government’s record investment of more than $41 billion in regional and rural Victoria since 2015. For more information visit www.rdv.vic.gov.au/living-local

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing

“Creativity brings community together – and we’re proud to support the Julia Street Creative Space collective to now welcome even more members.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora

“This project is helping even more locals meaningfully connect over arts, crafts and time together – boosting mental health and wellbeing.”