1. Community News – Infoxchange Australia - Web site 

This site includes a number of useful information sources including information on Community Advocacy
The site is also a good source for a number of publications and research documents

http://www.communitynews.infoxchange.net.au/

2. 'Building Stronger Communities' Website

The 'Building Stronger Communities' Website is designed to support stronger Victorian communities. A useful reference for community groups that are interested in community strengthening

It aims to inform and connect people involved in community strengthening projects across Victoria, and to assist those who want to find out more about community strengthening approaches.

Strengthening communities is a key priority of the Victorian Government which is aiming to improve social, economic and environmental well-being for all Victorians, and to develop new partnerships to address inequality and disadvantage. The web site contains a wide range of information and access to news and events.

http://www.communitybuilding.vic.gov.au/index.shtml  

3. Community cooperative connections

Published by the Centre for Australian Community Organisations and Management UTS. The Centre for Australian Community Organisations and Management (CACOM) research program focuses on issues of major national and international concern in relation to community capacity building and the role of third sector organisations in civil society. CACOM organises seminars presented by local and overseas academics and professionals and publishes Community Cooperative Connections (CCC) eNews.

http://www.business.uts.edu.au/cacom/news/

4. Our Community 

A leading social enterprise providing: www.ourcommunity.com.au - Australia's most useful website and publishing house, encompassing the nation's largest and most diverse membership base and 15 knowledge and service hubs - accelerating the impact of Australia's 700,000 community organisations
Australian Institute for Community Practice and Governance - practical and accessible certificated training delivered locally through our training Institute
Centre for Best Practice in Grantmaking - the unique suite of grantmaking services for government
Centre for Community-Business Partnerships - cutting edge Corporate Social Responsibility resources for large, medium and small business and community organisations
The organisation provides regular newsletter such ‘Our Community Matters', which is a regular free community sector update.

http://www.ourcommunity.com.au/index.jsp

5. Community.gov.au

This website provides access to online services and information for Australian community organisations, communities and individuals. It links to information and services provided by all levels of government as well as the non-government sector
The web site is an initiative of the Australian Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs
The community portal helps Australian Communities and community groups find relevant and up-to-date information.
This site cover issues on: Building Social Capital, Community Development Resources, Community Networking, Community Partnership, Conferences and Events, Leadership, Research Collections and Rural Communities.

http://www.community.gov.au/

6. Paul Bullen Management Alternatives

Management Alternatives Pty Ltd is a management consultancy business specialising in work for the community based, non-profit, welfare and church organisations and government, especially those providing human services. Paul Bullen is the Managing Director. Support staff are employed for specific projects. The site provides a good range of documentation and resources which may be of use I Community development and Capacity Building.

http://www.mapl.com.au/ideas/ideas0.htm

7. Victorian Government – All the Victorian Government Online Presence

An opening page to all Victorian government information sources

http://www.vic.gov.au/

8. Department for Victorian Communities – Community Strengthening

The Department for Victorian Communities (DVC) works with local people throughout Victoria with the mutual goal of strengthening communities. The aim of the department to assist in the development of community strengthening. It does this through promoting Community events and sharing ideas about how local groups, business and organisations can work in partnership with the Department to build and strengthen local communities. To this end the site contains a range of information and resources.

http://www.dvc.vic.gov.au/

9. Department for Victorian Communities Grants Information - All Grants that are controlled by the DVC

At Grants@DVC you'll find information about all the grant programs administered by the Department for Victorian Communities. On this site you can apply for grants online, download guidelines and applications forms, read about what community organisations have done with some successful grant applications and find hints and tips on how to apply for a grant.

http://www.grants.dvc.vic.gov.au/

10. Australian Government - one stop shop for all Australian Government

Federal Government site that provides information and further links into all areas of Commonwealth government departments.

http://www.australia.gov.au/

11. Information Victoria - for the purchase of publications and a general information service

A Victorian Government Information Service which aims to meet the needs of people looking for information on Victorian State Government legislation, programs, policies and services.

http://www.information.vic.gov.au/

12. Know Your Area - Provides Local Demographic Data

Victorian State Government, Department of Sustainability and Environment, provides a quick source of demographic to all State areas. It can be search by areas, LGA and suburbs.

http://www.doi.vic.gov.au/DOI/knowyour.nsf

13. Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) - Provides Information from the Census and Demographic Trends

The ABS has a key central role in expanding and improving the range of statistics available on the performance of our economy, the well-being of our population, the condition of our environment, and the challenges faced by regional and rural communities. The ABS collects, compiles, analyses and disseminates a wide range of statistics. They work with other federal, state and local government agencies to help them do likewise, with the vast array of data they collect during the course of administrative processes. ABS provides a range of freely available material as well as a range of other commercial services.

http://www.abs.gov.au/

14. Information Exchange – Technology for Social Justice

Infoxchange Australia is a not-for-profit social enterprise company focusing on community development using information technology as the primary tool to create positive social change. Infoxchange Australia's mission is to create social equality and opportunity by empowering people through access to information technology and enabling the exchange of information and ideas. It offers services to the not-for-profit sector that range from computer recycling and internet service provision to service directories and databases and online information and content management systems, from website design and hosting to a wide curriculum of computer training.

http://www.infoxchange.net.au/index.shtml

15. Vic Health - General Website that contains Health Information

Health promotion is a powerful, cost-effective and efficient way to maintain a healthier community. It enables people to increase control over and improve their health. Rather than focusing on people at risk for specific diseases, health promotion involves the population as a whole in the context of their everyday lives. Activities are geared toward promoting health and preventing ill-health. VicHealth is The Victorian Health Promotion Foundation, and is the peak body for health promotion in Victoria. The site provide information and access to Programs and projects, Funding opportunities, Calendar of events and Resources.

http://www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/

16. International Association for Public Participation

Good reference for how to successfully engage and interact with others groups and people.
The International Association of Public Participation is a non-profit organisation established to advance the practice of public participation. IAP2 is an association of members who seek to promote and improve the practice of public participation worldwide.
IAP2 Australasia provides a support network of people to discuss ideas, to examine case studies, to seek some definitions of what it is we do and also to look at the harder issues of qualification, training and ethics. It also aims to organise and conduct activities that serve the learning needs of its members.

http://www.iap2.org.au/

17. Federal Government Grants Homepage

Useful when looking for a grant from the Federal Government.
GrantsLINK makes it easier to find suitable and relevant grants from a variety of Federal Government Departments for your community projects from the many Commonwealth grants that are available. GrantsLINK also helps you find the best source of funding and assists you to complete application forms. The technical aspects of GrantsLINK are managed by the Australian Government Department of Transport and Regional Services.

http://www.grantslink.gov.au/

18. Victoria's Community Information Portal

Community internet services for Victorian non profit organisations.
The Vicnet provides community internet services to Victorian not-for-profit organisations. Through Vicnet, the State Library of Victoria delivers information and communication technologies, and support services which aim to strengthen Victorian communities.
Vicnet works with a wide range of not-for-profit community organisations including sporting, recreational, education, multicultural, health and arts groups. It also provides services to the government, education and welfare sectors.

http://www.vicnet.net.au/

19. Better Health Channel - Provides Personal Health Advice

The Better Health Channel (BHC) was established by the Victorian Government. The information on the site aims to help improve the health and wellbeing of the Victorian community. The website provides online health and medical information and Information such as: Fact sheets with healthy living tips, Fact sheets on health conditions, Questions and answers from a range of health experts, Interactive features and health tools, Directories of events, services and activities.

http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/

20. Health Translations Directory - Multilingual Health Definitions Website

The Health Translations Online Directory enables health practitioners and those working with culturally and linguistically diverse communities to easily find translated health information.
The Directory serves as a web portal providing direct links to translated health resources in Victoria, other states and Federal Government resources.

http://www.healthtranslations.vic.gov.au/

21. Business Victoria

The online gateway for business assistance from the Victorian Government.
Business Victoria is a comprehensive online resource designed to help you start, run and grow your business. Developed by the Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development (DIIRD).

http://www.business.vic.gov.au/scripts/nc.dll?BusVic:homepage

23. Department of Sustainability and Environment

A useful website for environmental matters outlines the Victorian governments policies and priorities for the environment.

http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/dse/index.htm


24. The Victorian Community Indicators (VCI) Project

A tool for measuring Community health wellbeing and sustainability for local governments.
The Victorian Community Indicators (VCI) Project is a VicHealth funded initiative designed to support local governments develop and use community indicators as tools for measuring health, wellbeing and sustainability and for improving citizen engagement, community planning and policy making. The Victorian Government Department of Human Services has also provided financial support to establish this site. This website is a resource and communication tool for those involved and interested in community indicator development.

http://www.communityindicators.net.au/


25. Philanthropy Australia 

A key site for those wishing to interact with the philanthropic sector.
Philanthropy Australia promotes giving and represents those that give to the community. As the national peak body they offer representation, networking, services and information to members and others in the non-profit sector.

http://www.philanthropy.org.au/


26. Corporate Community Engagement

Access to a consultant that advises business how to engage with communities.
Cavill and Co is an Australian based catalyst consultancy developing partnerships between Companies and Causes for a better planet. Their specialist service includes Corporate Community Engagement, Cause Related Marketing and Employee Community Engagement/Volunteering. They develop programs that are a public expression of the values of a company and its brands - programs that inspire employees, customers and stakeholders alike.

http://www.cavill.com.au/

27. Community Information Victoria

Community Information Victoria Inc (CIVic) is an association of member agencies that provide community information and support services to their local communities throughout Victoria.
CIVic provides assistance to the member Community Information Centres (CICs) in relation to community information, advocacy, policy and program development, research and consultation, development and support.

http://www.civ.org.au


28. Local Learning and Employment Networks 

Local Learning and Employment Networks (LLENs) are a Victorian Government initiative. They bring together education providers, industry, community organisations, individual and government organisations to improve education, training and employment outcomes for young people in communities across Victoria.

http://www.llen.vic.gov.au/


29. Good Company

For young professional people to register interest to undertake project for NGO's and community groups to volunteer. Good company connects skilled professionals with charitable organisations in need of pro bono assistance. It's the most efficient way of matching those who'd like to help with those who need their skills.

http://www.goodcompany.com.au/

30. Language Translation

Useful for translating languages electronically

http://www.babelfish.altavista.com/

31. Mensheds Australia

Mensheds Australia is a not-for-profit Australian organisation dedicated as the peak body, to resourcing and supporting the men's shed movement and the needs of their communities.
The growing problems with men's health, isolation, loneliness and depression are now looming as major men's health issues. Last year in Australia, there were 10 million consultations just dealing with mental health issues.
Mensheds Australia provides direction and support infrastructure for the development of sustainable men's sheds and their role as a catalyst in providing services to men and stimulating their communities economic activities.

http://www.mensheds.com.au/

32. Men's Sheds - Discussion Groups

This website has been set up to encourage the transfer of information between members of "Men's Sheds" or anyone else interested in the subject. It is available for anyone to publish information, read other inputs and to ask or answer questions.

http://www.mensshed.org/

33. VCOSS Victorian Council of Social Services

This website informs of developments within the Victorian Social Services sector. It contains a range of Policy documents, training developments, publications and events.

http://www.vcoss.org.au/index.htm

34. ACOSS Australian Council of Social Services

The Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) is the peak council of the community services and welfare sector. Established in 1956, ACOSS is the national voice for the needs of people affected by poverty and inequality. ACOSS has a national reputation for effective and influential advocacy for Australia's disadvantaged people based on high standards of community consultation, policy development, analysis and research. This website informs of developments within the Australian Social Services sector. It contains a range of Policy documents, training developments, publications and events.

http://www.acoss.org.au/

35. The Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA)

VLGA is a unique peak body for local governments and communities that advocates for social change and empowers local governments by strengthening their capacity to engage with their communities. The VLGA's website provides a focal point for
the Association's work and is a central resource for members.

The site structure is highly flexible to accommodate a wide range of topics such as food security, local planning, women in governance and to respond to emerging issues. News and events from the VLGA community can be added to the site's news section, featured in the What's New area, as well as being added to an events calendar. VLGA news is distributed through 'Weekly announcement updates' emails to its many subscribers. Site visitors are welcome to submit items and resources, which are
easily managed with a built-in moderation system.

http://www.vlga.org.au/

36. Australian Policy Online

News and research from leading policy centres and institutes. Provides a wide range of papers and research into social policy issues. Edited by the Institute for social Research Swinburne University of Technology.

http://www.apo.org.au/webboard/results.chtml?filename_num=88460

37. The Office of Housing

The Office of Housing aims to provide better housing assistance by increasing the supply of affordable housing and, through a better understanding of their clients, and aligning housing stock to meet their needs.

It also aims to strengthen communities by improving the wellbeing of Victorians experiencing disadvantage, create more opportunity and support through their place-based approach, and improve response to homelessness.

The Office also aims to build better services and business practises that are sustainable and contribute to positive relationships with clients and strong partnerships with agencies.

http://hnb.dhs.vic.gov.au/OOH/ne5ninte.nsf/childdocs/-38604028827AA0B7CA2570FA0083651A-909DCE0EBD274C474A2569E50003EAEC?open

38. Neighbourhood Renewal: Creating a Fairer Victoria

Neighbourhood Renewal is a long-term commitment by the State Government to narrow the gap between disadvantaged communities and the rest of the State.
Smarter, more responsive government is making a difference.

The renewal program works in partnerships with local government and is a key component of the program. Working in partnership with Neighbourhood Renewal teams to identify issues and make plans for future action. Local governments are working with the State Government to reduce disadvantage and build a more cohesive community. The site provides information on programs and a number of resources.

http://www.neighbourhoodrenewal.vic.gov.au/

39. Australian Institute of Family Studies

Established to promote the identification and understanding of factors affecting marital and family stability in Australia. The Australian Institute of Family Studies aims to contribute to family wellbeing in Australia by undertaking high-quality research that informs the Australian Government and the community and influences policy, services and support for families. It provides a wide range of information, resources, publications, and links to forthcoming national and international events.

http://www.aifs.gov.au/

40. Australian Institute of Health & Welfare

Australia's national agency for health and welfare statistics and information. They provide information and statistics in various subject areas of health and welfare such as: Ageing and aged care, Alcohol and other drugs, Cancer, Cardiovascular health, Children and youth, Chronic diseases, Diabetes, Functioning and disability, Hospitals,
Housing and homelessness, Indicators, Indigenous Australians, Mental health, Population health, Risk factors, Rural health, and Veterans' health.

http://www.aihw.gov.au/

41. The Commonwealth Carer Respite Centre's Residential Respite Vacancy Seeker

The Commonwealth Carer Respite Centre's Residential Respite Vacancy Seeker is a free online tool that helps people who are looking for respite or other accommodation to find what is currently available. It also enables service providers responsible for the administration of beds to list their vacancies.

Residential Respite Vacancy Seeker uses simple, web-based software to enable searching by clicking on regions on a map, or entering a suburb or postcode. Searches can be narrowed to select gender, level of care, and specialist needs. Service providers can log into the system to update their own vacancies.

There are currently over 200 vacancies available around Victoria.

http://vcsn.vacancyseeker.org.au

42. The Community Housing Information and Reference Service

The Community Housing Information and Reference Service (CHIRS) is a key information and communication resource for the Victorian housing sector. News items are submitted to the site by individuals, community organisations and Infoxchange. They include current news, profiles of housing workers, information about meetings and forums, and newly published reports and publications. The site includes a library with over 1600 records, a vacancy seeker that enables people to list and search for accommodation vacancies, a service seeker to search for all kinds of community-related services and a discussion forum.

http://chirs.infoxchange.net.au

43. The Council to Homeless Persons (CHP)

The Council is the peak body for homeless persons' organisations in Victoria. The Council was established in 1972 and represents both individuals and organisations with a stake or interest in homelessness.

The vision and mission of CHP is to work for the elimination of homelessness and a inclusive society by being the leading policy and advocacy organisation on homeless issues in Victoria.
CHP has four general services or functions. They are: Homelessness Policy Information, Analysis, Opinion, Facilitation and Advocacy, Policy Information, Analysis, Opinion, Facilitation and Advocacy Regarding Young People who Are Homeless, Homelessness Advocacy Service providing individual client advocacy, secondary consultation and rights information and training, and Parity: the publication of CHP and the leading journal in Australia regarding homelessness issues.

http://www.chp.org.au

44. Local Connections Online

Local Connections is an initiative of the Local Government Research Network (LGRN). Local Connections provides an interactive online newsletter..
Local Connections aims to provide a forum for current local government research that links to policy development at the local or broader level.

Each edition is usually provides articles which cover planned research, results or experiences of research which has been completed recently, evaluation of programs, indicators for community wellbeing or benchmarking, community surveys, research partnerships or other collaborations, and other activities which support the development of policy through quality research. Local Connections is a good resource as well as place to publish.

http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/DSE/dsenres.nsf/LinkView/67919C728BC203C5CA256D3B000522CCAB1069AB6A9F11F8CA256D1A0022D1C8

45. Innovation Network

Innovation Network is a non-profit organization working to share planning and evaluation tools and know-how. They provide consulting, training, and online tools for nonprofits and funders.

Innovation Network's website was launched in 1998 to bring evaluation tools, resources, and know-how to thousands of nonprofits across geographic and budget boundaries. The web-based tools are rooted in our practical in-person evaluation experience. In turn, the tools support and extend the reach of our consulting and training practice.

http://www.innonet.org/