The 17 Sustainable Development Goals developed by the United Nations are urgent call to action by all countries to bring peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future.

Neighbourhood and community houses and centres across Australia work towards these goals everyday. From food parcel programs to outreach programs to disadvantaged members of our community. 

The Ballarat East Neighbourhood House is working towards the following Sustainable Development Goals:

SDG #1: No Poverty

We are working toward this goal through offering assistance to eligible people who need help applying for the $250 Power Saving Bonus. Our Winter Woollies group provide knitted goods (hats, beanies, scarves, slippers, blankets and toys) to those in need.

SDG #2: Zero Hunger

Through the 'Pay it Forward' project in partnership with the team at A Pot of Courage Cafe, we are helping those who are not able to afford a hot drink or meal to have one free of charge, donated by another member of the local community.

SDG #3: Good Health and Wellbeing

We aim to promote positive health and wellbeing to our community members through initiatives such as Chatty Wednesdays, Playgroup, Tai Chi, Watercolours, Drawing Group, Ballarat Buddies for International Students, Winter Woollies and the Wellbeing Scripts project.

We are also working towards starting up our Walking Groups again and plan to host a community Ride2Work day breakfast in October at Barkly Square as part of our Active Transport project.

SDG #5: Gender Equality

The Ballarat East Neighbourhood House is a member of the Women's Health Grampian's program, CORE - Communities of Respect and Equality. We are working together to ensure our organisation supports the vision of safe, equal and respectful communities.

SDG #10: Reduced Inequalities

Through the Be Connected program, funded by the Australian Government through The Good Things Foundation, we offer free of charge digital skills training to people aged 50 and older, helping to bridge the digital divide.

SDG # 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Through the Ballarat East Community News, the Ballarat East Neighbourhood House is helping to create a connected, informed and reslient local community.

SDG # 15: Life on Land

The Ballarat East Neighbourhood House is working towards this goal through community events such as 'Tree Pruning with Mitch' and the potential to start up a Gardening Group.