Partnerships for Purpose | South East Community Links
Partnership between South East Community Links and Metro Trains Melbourne places Community Connectors (skilled practitioners) at train stations to support people in crisis. Addressing the intersection of homelessness, mental health, and public transport safety through trauma-informed, culturally responsive intervention, the program has contributed to reductions in crime statistics around Dandenong station: disorderly conduct down 79%, public order offences down 59%, and drug use/possession down 43%. The place-based initiative at Dandenong and Frankston stations has provided 4,535 engagements offering support, helped 7,112 community members, prevented 280 situations of self-harm/violence, and made 254 referrals to housing/mental health services. The program is also helping to ensure station staff, and transport commuters feel safe and supported. With scalable design, proven impact, and strong demand, Community Connectors is a blueprint for place-based social impact at busy transport hubs that’s ready to grow, with interest in the model from London Transit and the Victorian and NSW Governments.
