Post by Carlton Neighbourhood Learning Centre

24 participants graduated from our Climate Voices (Program 5) last night, and what an inspiring group they were. [ We are also taking applications for Program 6 that starts in a few weeks - apply here: https://lnkd.in/gHdBmzkM ] Over the program, participants came together to develop four campaigns focused on creating practical local change: • Encouraging a Council to introduce a Heat Emergency Plan to better protect communities during extreme heat events. • “Nurture Your Nature Strip” – a campaign calling for a Council awareness campaign and support for households to plant and green their nature strips. • Advocating for political parties in Victoria to commit to a $25 million annual Climate Resilience Fund, allowing local grassroots community groups to access funding to strengthen communities against climate emergencies. • Calling for more frequent — and electric — bus services in Melbourne’s west, an area facing disadvantage and limited public transport options. The ideas, leadership and passion shown by participants throughout the program have been incredible. Real change often starts with local people identifying challenges in their own communities and taking action together. Congratulations to all 24 graduates. We’re excited to see where these campaigns go next!