New community hub marks milestone for Nairm Marr Djambana

Published on 23 April 2026

Frankston’s First Nations community is celebrating the completion of a new multi-use community hub at Nairm Marr Djambana, marking a significant milestone in a long-term vision for a culturally strong and connected gathering place.

The project is being funded by $850,000 from the Australian Government’s Investing in Our Communities Program. Delivered by Frankston City Council, the project provides a fit-for-purpose space to support programs that strengthen health, wellbeing, education and cultural connection for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Frankston and surrounding areas.

Frankston City Mayor Cr Sue Baker joined Federal Member for Dunkley Jodie Belyea and Nairm Marr Djambana Chairperson Alan Johnson and CEO Deb Mellett to officially open the new facility — which forms part of the first stage of a three-part master plan designed to support the organisation’s long-term growth, self-determination and sustainability.

Mayor Baker said: “This is a significant milestone for Nairm Marr Djambana and an important investment in a space that will support connection, wellbeing and opportunity for our rapidly growing indigenous community for years to come.”

“It reflects a clear long-term vision for a culturally strong and inclusive place, backed by partnership between local and federal government.

“Importantly, this is just the first stage — and it demonstrates why continued investment is so critical to fully realise that vision and support future generations.”

Located within Jubilee Park, Nairm Marr Djambana (meaning ‘gathering by the bay’) is a community-led meeting place that provides culturally safe programs and services for First Nations people. The organisation plays a vital role in fostering inclusion, strengthening identity, and supporting community wellbeing.

The new hub will enable the expansion of existing programs and create new opportunities for community connection. The facility includes community workshop space consisting of a multipurpose room, kitchenette, and storerooms. The workshop space will primarily accommodate Nairm Marr Djambana’s existing men’s group and the outdoor decking will be used as a community workshop breakout space alongside the fire pit and Cultural Ceremonial Space.

Ms Belyea said: “The Australian Government is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of First Nations communities, and ensuring people have access to culturally safe spaces where they feel connected and supported.

“Nairm Marr Djambana plays a vital role in strengthening community, culture and wellbeing, and this new facility will help expand the programs and support available to local families.

“We’re proud to be investing in a space that will continue to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”

Ms Mellett said the project reflects years of community advocacy and planning.

“This space has been shaped by our community — by what people have told us they need to feel safe, supported and connected.”

“For many years we’ve delivered programs from temporary facilities, but this hub gives us the beginning of what Nairn Marr Djambana can become - to grow, to strengthen culture, and to support our people in new ways.

Since setting up its Nursery Avenue site in 2016, Nairm Marr Djambana has operated from two demountable buildings while delivering a wide range of programs, including men’s and women’s groups, youth activities, cultural programs and community events.

In 2025, Frankston City Council formalised its long-term support for the organisation through a 50-year lease, providing a strong foundation for future growth.

With Stage 1a now complete, Nairm Marr Djambana is now seeking further investment to deliver the next stages of the master plan, including expanded gathering spaces, a dedicated children’s and ceremonial area, and a commercial kitchen and café to support ongoing social enterprise.

Frankston is home to one of Victoria’s fastest growing First Nations communities, with an 80 per cent increase in residents identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander since 2011. At the 2021 Census, around 1,800 people identified as First Nations, representing 1.3 per cent of the total population, compared with a national average of 1 per cent.

For more information about Nairm Marr Djambana: Nairm Marr Djambana – Gathering by the bay

Caption: Celebrating the completion of a new multi-use community hub at Nairm Marr Djambana (from left): Nairm Marr Djambana Chairperson Alan Johnson, the Hon Paul Edbrooke MP, State Member for Frankston, Frankston City Mayor Cr Sue Baker, Federal Member for Dunkley Jodie Belyea, Nairm Marr Djambana CEO Deb Mellett, Cr Emily Green, Cr Steffie Conroy, and Cr Nathan Butler.