$1.5m Lanyon community hub expansion to grow Foodbank

ACT Minister for Community Services Joy Burch today turned the first sod of extensions to the YWCA Mura Lanyon Youth and Community Centre and announced that the expanded area would be used to establish an outlet for the distribution of food from Australia's biggest distributor of food donations.

"The $1.5 million upgrade to this important centre will enable the YWCA to continue to serve the people of Tuggeranong and meets the needs of residents," Ms Burch said.

"I am pleased to announce that the ACT Government is enhancing the centre's community value by assisting the YWCA to establish an outlet for food from the Sydney warehouse of Foodbank, for distribution to low income families.

Ms Burch also announced today that the Government will provide annual funding of $66,000 to the Rotary Club of Canberra continue its delivery of Foodbank goods to ACT charities.

"A further $30,000 will be provided to the YWCA to establish a Food Service shop at the new Lanyon centre to help distribute this food. The Food Service Shop will be complemented by a social enterprise café which will double up as a training facility for young people."

The enhancement of current food bank arrangements was one of several initiatives Chief Minister Katy Gallagher committed to following a Community Roundtable in September. The ACT Government is also developing a Targeted Assistance Strategy in consultation with the community sector.

Other additions to the YWCA centre, in Conder, include a community meeting room, extra storage and a lock-up garage for the community bus. In addition, the skateboard facilities at the site will be moved from the rear to the front to increase its attractiveness to people.

Ms Burch said the strategic development of the community centre would cement its place as a community focal point for the years ahead.