Proudly #3214
Norlane
Norlane, a northern suburb of Geelong, Victoria, lies on Wadawurrung traditional lands. Established post-World War II for industrial workers, particularly from Ford, it developed a strong working-class community. Today, Norlane is a diverse suburb with about 8,000 residents, including both long-term inhabitants and newcomers from various cultures.
Norlane faces socio-economic disadvantages due to industrial decline, economic shifts, educational barriers, housing issues, health disparities, social stigma, poor infrastructure, and policy failures. Residents struggle with poverty-related challenges which impact families, housing, employment, education, and health. Economic difficulties are significant, with many struggling with rising living costs and low incomes. The community also deals with social stigma, which affects wellbeing and self-worth.
However, we have witnessed the potential of Norlane firsthand.
The community of Norlane is known for its strong social cohesion and unity. Residents take pride in their ability to look out for one another, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Many actively participate in voluntary activities, care for each other, and show a strong sense of responsibility toward maintaining their environment and liveable conditions.
For many years in Norlane, a dedicated group of local residents have intentionally sought to build on these strengths and to develop relationships, provide hospitality and cultivate community with their neighbours. Over time, this work has taken various forms and expressions but has consistently emphasised the transformative power of relationships and the strengths inherent in local neighbourhoods.
Initially, this effort was conducted under the banner of Urban Seed, followed by Norlane Community Initiatives, and now called The Good Neighbourhood Project.
We believe that when we come together to eat, work, learn, celebrate, share, and get to know each other, incredible things can happen. Friendships are formed, stories are shared, problems are addressed, and opportunities are created. With this belief, our team is dedicated to investing in and championing the strengths of our community. From food security to community building, education, and placemaking, we believe that local transformation is most effective when it actively involves the people who live here.
Neighbourhood Commons
Robin Avenue Commons
Robin Avenue Commons was the first neighbourhood space developed by The Good Neighbourhood Project, beginning with weekly community meals more than a decade ago. Today it’s home to the Aviary Café, Goodness & Grains Co-op, a community garden, and food programs like Grow Cook Eat—continuing to be a place where neighbours share life, learn new skills, and support each other.
A Neighbourhood Commons is a welcoming place where neighbours gather, share life, and spark ideas that strengthen the whole community. It’s a space shaped by relationships, where local leadership and everyday acts of generosity grow into lasting neighbourhood change.
Lab Square Commons
The revitalisation of Labuan Square began in 2022 as locals and volunteers breathed new life into a once under-used shopping strip. It has since grown into Lab Square Commons, where neighbours gather at the café, op shop, and craft shop, share in weekly lunches, and celebrate together through markets and festivals—building a stronger, more connected neighbourhood.
Spruhan Avenue Commons
Spruhan Avenue Commons represents the next chapter in our long-term vision for Norlane. After securing a 40-year lease and years of planning, the site is now being redeveloped into a Neighbourhood Hub with a café, dining hall, commercial kitchen, urban farm, and creative spaces. Once complete, it will be a home for connection, learning, and leadership for generations of neighbours to come.