Why do we need HUM?
Situated in the far north-west of Victoria, the local government area (LGA) of Mildura covers around 10% of the state’s area and has a population of approximately 55,000 people.
The region is known for its big skies, rich earth and the mighty Murray River. It has a proud and longstanding reputation as a place of resilience and resourcefulness
The Mildura LGA is culturally diverse, with a large Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population (4.6% compared to 0.8% for the rest of Victoria), and is also home to more than 40 different migrant groups. Mildura is a primary settlement area for refugees and has a high percentage of arrivals come on humanitarian visas.
But,
despite the resourcefulness and resilience of our community, the Mildura LGA faces numerous complex social problems.
We are one of the most disadvantaged areas in Victoria; ranking 6th out of the 79 Victorian LGAs on the SEIFA index; the median wage is well below the state average; the rate of family violence incidents is the second highest in the state; we have a very high rate of children on child protection orders and children in out of home care; high numbers of our children start school vulnerable in one or more AEDC domains; and our year 12 completion rates are well below the state average.