ABOUT THE UMR NETWORK
Upper Murray Regional Neighbourhood House Network (UMRNHN) is one of 16 networks representing neighbourhood houses and learning centres across regional and metropolitan Victoria. The Networks provide management and operational support and resources to the member houses and centres. This includes personalised support to Committees of Management/Governance, staff and volunteers. Networks also have a facilitative role, enabling their members to participate in broader community development strategies.
In the Upper Murray Region there are 16 neighbourhood houses and centres across six Local Government Areas, within the Shires of Indigo, Wodonga, Wangaratta, Moira, Alpine, Towong. These municipalities incorporate regional centres or towns, semi-rural and rural areas.
Click here for the full list of neighbourhood houses and learning centres in the Upper Murray Region.
Funding
UMRNHN receives Neighbourhood House Coordination Program (NHCP) funding from Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and from this employs a Network Coordinator for 19 hours/week.
Governance
Like other Neighbourhood House Networks, UMRNHN is governed by a volunteer committee drawn from Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres across the Network. The Committee meets at least four times a year, with ongoing communication and meetings between the Network Coordinator and the Chair.
Legal structure
UMRNHN is an incorporated association under the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 (Vic). The Constitution reflects the Model Rules, and can be found here.
Strategic Plan
The current Strategic Plan covers the three years from 2022 to 2024.
The three strategic priorities for 2022-2024 are:
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Building Capacity
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Raising the Profile
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Having and Impact
The plan provides a long term view for the Upper Murray Regional Neighbourhood House Network, and provides a framework for the Network Coordinator to achieve the core purpose of the Network, which is:
We exist to empower, support and enable our members to be outstanding and impactful community development leaders in their communities.
The plan also provides a useful framework for members to use for their own strategic planning. You can download a copy of the Strategic Plan here.
Network services
The Network provides a range of services to members. You can find out more about our services here and here.
Memberships and partnerships
The Network forms strategic partnerships and collaborations that will benefit Network members. Currently we are members of the following:
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Ovens Murray Mental Health, Alcohol & Drug Alliance
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Wangaratta LGA Health & Wellbeing Partnership
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Gender Equity Community of Practice
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Ovens Murray Family Violence Partnership