To: Merri-bek Council Members & Victorian State Government Representatives

Cool Spaces for Merri-bek Residents During Extreme Heat

Rapids on Merri Creek in Fawkner - bushland in the middle of suburbia (John Englart)
We call on the Merri-bek Council and the Victorian State Government to develop a heat emergency response plan that leaves no one behind and establishes accessible cooling centres to protect people from the increasingly dangerous impacts of heatwaves. Everyone but especially Elders, children, people with disabilities, and low-income households need safe places to cool down.

Why is this important?

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense. We need practical solutions to help our community stay comfortable and safe during hot weather.

Merri-bek Council declared a climate emergency in 2018. Now we need action.

OUR PROPOSAL: 
  • Establish accessible cooling centres across Merri-bek and fund upgrades to existing Council facilities to make them effective cool spaces
  • Provide free or low-cost accessible transport solutions so that everyone can access these cool spaces 
  • Work with communities to develop a comprehensive heat emergency response plan that addresses the unique needs of all communities and ensures no one is left behind during extreme weather events.

This is about creating a safer, more connected community that can handle our changing climate. Let's work together.

Sign our petition to support practical cool space solutions for all Merri-bek residents.