New Village Hub to connect and activate seniors in north Sydney

The Morrison Government is providing $336,000 to the Sydney North Health Network to help alleviate loneliness and social isolation experienced by older Australians in North Sydney.

The Sydney North Health Network is among 10 organisations that will share in $4.7 million to establish new Seniors Connected Village Hubs across the country.
Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said the funding would allow organisations to turn clubs, centres and libraries into hubs of activity to help seniors better connect with their local community and live independently.

“These new village hubs would encourage older Australians to socialise and engage in activities like bushwalking, crafts, yoga classes and information nights that support good mental and physical health,” Minister Ruston said.

Member for Bradfield, Paul Fletcher said that the Hornsby Village Hub would be established in partnership with the Hornsby Shire Council. It would run on a membership model to provide participants with a sense of belonging and ownership, as well as providing some funding toward planned activities.

“The Hub’s activities would range from the social, physical and educational to the artistic and cultural – all aimed at improving the well-being of older people,” said Mr Fletcher.

“We know that digital and social connections are essential to support older Australians to live independently and this is more important than ever during the coronavirus pandemic.”

Member for Berowra, Julian Leeser said that the hubs have come at a time of increased challenges and stresses associated with retirement and ageing.

“With a third of all senior Australians living alone, there is a very real need for assistance in alleviating loneliness and social isolation. The new Hub will help our older population maintain good mental health and ensure a smooth transition into retirement for new retirees” said Mr Leeser.

The 10 new Village Hubs are an initiative of the Morrison Government’s Seniors Connected program.

Further information about the Seniors Connected program is available on the Department of Social Services Website.