Petition Description:

The Problem:

Footscray and Melbourne’s western suburbs face rising homelessness, youth disengagement, and community instability. Large buildings such as the former Footscray Hospital and Franco Cozzo Building are currently underutilized, while many vulnerable residents struggle to find housing or safe spaces.

Our Solution:

We propose transforming these buildings into the Footscray Community Peace District, a non-profit community hub offering:

Safe housing for homeless individuals and vulnerable youth

Youth development programs: mentoring, creative arts, sports, and employment pathways

Community hubs that foster identity, belonging, and empowerment

This initiative ensures the buildings remain in public/community use, rather than being privatized, while providing a stable, safe environment that helps redirect youth and strengthen local communities.

Why It Matters:

Reduces homelessness and social isolation

Provides safe spaces for youth, reducing crime and violence

Promotes a sense of ownership, identity, and belonging for residents

Encourages local engagement and non-profit community programs

Call to Action:

We ask the Minister for Housing, DFFH, local MP, and Maribyrnong City Council to:

Review and approve the proposal for repurposing the former Footscray Hospital and Franco Cozzo Building.

Support funding, planning, and implementation for housing and youth development initiatives.

Ensure the project remains community-focused, non-profit, and publicly accessible.

Optional Federal Support:

We invite the Federal Minister for Housing & Homelessness to support this initiative through funding, policy guidance, or collaboration, reinforcing its social impact.