• It's a 12-month leadership experience hosted by The Good Neighbourhood Project in Norlane, Geelong.

  Participants contribute to the life of the neighbourhood and engage in shared learning, reflection and mentoring.

  The program is designed to develop people who can recognise the strengths of communities, build meaningful relationships and help create positive change — wherever their leadership journey takes them.

Learning happens through experience, reflection and relationships, with opportunities to develop skills in:

• Community development: Understanding strengths-based, place-based approaches to working alongside communities.

• Personal leadership: Discovering your strengths, values and leadership style.

• Relationships and community building: Practising hospitality, listening, collaboration and navigating differences.

• Community organising: Learning how to support local initiatives, bring people together and turn ideas into action.

• Personal formation: Building self-awareness, resilience and a deeper understanding of your purpose.

Each participant will develop a personal learning and leadership plan alongside a TGNP staff mentor.

Participants commit to 12 months of intentional community living, practical community contribution and shared learning.

This includes:

• Living in shared accommodation in Norlane.

• Regular involvement in a chosen area of community life, such as cafés, gardens, social enterprises or neighbourhood programs.

• A kick-off retreat and weekly learning and reflection sessions.

• Monthly house meetings.

• Regular mentoring and supervision.

A contribution of approximately $50 per week towards accommodation and bills may apply.

The program is designed to allow participants to balance their involvement with other employment, study and personal commitments.

Not at all.

We're looking for people who are curious, open to learning, willing to contribute and interested in making a difference.

Whether you're just beginning to explore leadership or already have some experience, the program offers opportunities to grow.

The Good Neighbourhood Project is shaped by values of love, hospitality, generosity, joy and peace.

The program welcomes people from all backgrounds and beliefs.

In partnership with Norlane Baptist Church, participants can also choose an optional Christian faith formation pathway, with opportunities for spiritual reflection, shared practices and exploring faith in action.

Our hope is that participants finish the year with greater confidence, practical experience and a clearer sense of their future.

This might lead to opportunities within TGNP, leadership in other neighbourhoods, further study, community development, social enterprise, ministry or other vocational pathways.

We want to develop leaders who can take what they've learned and contribute to thriving communities wherever they go.