What is poverty?
Poverty is often described as a lack of money to meet basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. Poverty can be making difficult decisions between which bills to pay. Poverty can be being sick and not being able to see a doctor. Many of us are only one life event away from poverty not having enough funds to support ourselves if life altering circumstances occur.
The rising cost of living and lack of affordable housing affects everyone some more than others.
- 1 in 5 people live in poverty in Greater Dandeong
- 1 in 4 children live in poverty in Greater Dandneong
Poverty is everyone's business, and everyone has a role to play.
What is Council doing about poverty?
Council is working alongside the wider community to reduce poverty. Engaging government and other decision makers. Over the coming year we will advocate for funding to work on the following priorities:
- Emergency funds for place based organisations
- Initiatives to address food insecurity
- Early Intervention and community education
- A safe place for the homeless to seek respite
- Improve conditions for rooming house residents
- Intensive general casework support in the form of outreach
You too can help find out how by emailing Council at poverty@cgd.vic.gov.au
If you need help don’t wait, ask for help as quickly as possible.
Local support organisations
Council has put together a list of agencies that may be able to provide emergency food relief and material aid. Please note that hours of service may change without notice. Please contact the agency to confirm services available.
Download the support agency list - 24KB
Ask Izzy
Ask Izzy connects people who are in crisis with services that are required straight away. It is a one-stop shop for services and supports for the community providing localised and reachable services.
Visit the Ask Izzy website for more information.
Anti-Poverty Strategy
The City of Greater Dandenong Anti-Poverty Strategy 2022–25 acknowledges the value of working with place based organisations to understand the needs within the community. We also recognise the ongoing need to consult and work alongside the voice of lived experience to develop long term solutions.
If Government, business and community work together to influence and create the conditions for people to move out of poverty, we all benefit. Council believes that we are all a part of the solution.
Read more information about the City of Greater Dandenong Anti-Poverty Strategy 2022-25.
