Living & Learning Nillumbik Advisory Committee

Living & Learning Nillumbik (L&LN) is a Council-run network of community-based Neighbourhood Houses that support people across the Shire to connect, learn and belong.

Operating from hubs in Eltham, Diamond Creek and Panton Hill, L&LN delivers inclusive, affordable and locally responsive programs that reflect the strengths, interests and aspirations of each community.

L&LN plays a key role in fostering lifelong learning, social connection, wellbeing and participation, particularly for people seeking welcoming, place-based opportunities to build skills, confidence and relationships.

L&LN operates and aligns with Council’s broader commitment to community wellbeing, equity, access and lifelong learning.

Policy statement

The Advisory Committee supports L&LN’s community-led approach by providing a structured mechanism for community voices to inform, advise and strengthen Neighbourhood House programs, priorities and continuous improvement.

The Committee does not have decision-making authority and operates in an advisory capacity, supporting Council to remain responsive, transparent and accountable to local communities.

Aim

To support L&LN's Neighbourhood House hubs to:

• remain community-led and responsive to local needs
• provide inclusive, welcoming and accessible learning opportunities
• strengthen social connection, belonging and wellbeing
• encourage participation, volunteering and skill-sharing 
• support continuous improvement and innovation in community learning.

Objective

The objectives of the Committee are to:

• contribute to the representation of voices, experiences and aspirations of Nillumbik residents who participate in or are interested in Neighbourhood House programs and services
• provide feedback and advice to Council on matters relating to community learning, participation and wellbeing across L&LN
• consider and provide advice on Council policies, plans and services that impact community learning, Neighbourhood Houses and community connection in Nillumbik
• consider and provide advice on key government initiatives, programs and reviews
• represent the views and needs of participants, volunteers, tutors and the broader Nillumbik community
• assist Council to communicate, consult and engage more effectively with the broader Nillumbik community
• strengthen partnerships with residents, community groups and services in Nillumbik
• contribute to a cycle of continually assessing and improving Nillumbik's community learning, engagement and service delivery outcomes.

Meeting frequency

The Advisory Committee will be held quarterly.

Committee period

Appointments will be for a two year term.

Members 2026-2028

The following committee members were appointed in June 2026:

• Glenda Cust
• Kate Tancredi
• Kristy Green
• Nanette Fox
• Sridhar Chandrasekaran
• Anubhav Dhingra
• Adrian Richards
• Penelope Stray
• Elnaz Ettehad
• Renee Blome