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Abstract:
In 2007 representatives of the Mid West Gascoyne Human Services Regional Manager’s Group (MWGHSRMG) asked Combined Universities Centre for Rural Health (CUCRH) to propose a study to determine the value and effectiveness of community development officers (CDOs) in the Murchison region and to assist in designing a model that would enhance and sustain their efforts. In the past ten years Western Australian shires have taken on aspects of community development as part of their core responsibilities. Experiences in Western Australia and throughout the world have reaffirmed the importance of dedicated salaried positions to coordinate and support community development efforts. By now the majority of WA shires have supported community development positions completely or in part through their revenue base. In the Murchison region shire CEOs also recognise the important work undertaken by the CDOs through the localised programs and services they deliver. However, they have also articulated their frustrations with on-going work force issues, reliance on project funding and the enormity of the challenges in community development. At the commencement of this project it was envisaged that findings may lead to the pursuit of a more sustainable, stable and reliable funding stream for Community Development Officers (CDOs) throughout the Murchison region. Whilst this is still at the core of why the review was carried out, it has become abundantly clear that funding for the employment of CDOs is but one important element of a successful community development strategy for communities throughout the Murchison.
