Since 2019, South East Community Links (SECL) has delivered the Community Capacity Building (CCB) program, empowering culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities across Melbourne’s southeast. Focused on fostering grassroots leadership, the program selects aspiring leaders from emerging community groups including Afghan, African, Arabic-speaking, Indian, Iranian, Nepalese, and Sri Lankan backgrounds, to develop their governance, leadership, and project management capabilities. Participants gain direct access to training, government and local stakeholders, and funding pathways to support self-identified projects that respond to critical needs within their communities. Through a hands-on, inclusive approach, the Community Capacity Building program cultivates resilient, self-determined community groups that drive social participation and wellbeing from within.

The Community Capacity Building program offers a structured pathway for multicultural community groups to build leadership and organisational capability. Through interactive workshops, participants develop skills in project management, governance, and communication. SECL supports groups in identifying community needs and translating them into actionable projects, while also guiding them through grant application processes.

Unincorporated groups receive auspicing support to manage funds and meet accountability requirements. In addition, participants are connected with local stakeholders including councils, libraries, and health services creating long-term networks. Graduates of the program often return to mentor new participants, reinforcing a cycle of community-led growth and support.