The work at Labuan Square aims to address the community needs of high levels of social and economic disadvantage in Norlane including unemployment, poverty, food insecurity, health issues and social isolation.

NCI have identified the need for welcoming and accessible public spaces in key locations within Norlane which help residents access services, develop relationships and build community participation.

The funds from Benefit Geelong will go towards the fit-out of their new Op-Shop at Labuan Square. The shop represents the next phase in their plan to activate this beloved community space.

Deakin University’s Vital Communities Research supports this identified need under the section strategies for Alleviating Locational Disadvantage – “Having ready access to quality communal spaces can benefit health and wellbeing, reduce isolation, help counter place-based stigma, and foster community pride”.

NCI have already collaborated with the council to rejuvenate Labuan Square and, following this project, they opened their first community space – The Lab Square Commons Cafe. This is an affordable cafe, meeting, and events space. The cafe also serves over 40 community members at weekly Wednesday lunches and hosts regular local events.

From NCI’s three years working at Labuan Square it has been revealed there is a significant need for affordable household items and clothing in the 3214 area and this was reflected in their community consultation report (attached to their application), as well as more volunteer opportunities to bolster local employment pathways. In response, NCI secured a short-term lease for another shop, enlisted local volunteers, and launched a pop-up op shop. After several months, it became clear that this initiative has a promising future. NCI aim to sign a long-term lease in June 2024 and fit out the shop with permanent fixtures, signage, sales systems, fresh paint, and improve the volunteer/sorting room. At this stage, the Op-Shop will operate alongside the cafe from Tuesday to Thursday, 10am – 2pm, with a view to extending these hours in the future. Expected outcomes include: over 100 weekly volunteer hours for local residents, affordable second-hand clothing, toys, books, and furniture for hundreds of residents, and a boost to the local shopping centre. Most importantly, NCI aims to foster a sense of safety, welcome, and inclusion at one of Norlane’s most recognised and important community spaces – Labuan Square.

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