Community

Mental health is an increasing issue in the Shire, which has been exacerbated by the health and financial distress associated with COVID-19. We will also work with community associations to establish a one-stop support and referral shop for people suffering due to COVID-19 restrictions. As a Committee Member of the Byron Community Centre, Mayoral candidate Bruce Clarke has seen first-hand the impact of COVID-19 on residents’ mental health and the many other issues causing difficulties for our community.

We are committed to working with our community, including local philanthropists, who are doing some amazing work in this area including support of the growing number of homeless people and disaffected youth. We are committed to the urgent establishment of a women’s refuge, which is very sadly lacking in the Byron Shire.  The need for kindness and mutual respect should be a priority.

Our Actions:

- Listen to the community and establish precinct committees to facilitate transparent, respectful, kind and inclusive communications from the outset.

- Increase support for mental health services including NGOs and community groups.

- Create careers, not just jobs, for our youth.

- Facilitate a one-stop support and referral shop for people suffering mental health and/or financial issues.

- Value our cultural and arts community including populating our Shire with public art and provide opportunities for traditional custodians to share their history visually and orally.