The Story of Grit and Resilience
Grit and Resilience → Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG)
The Grit and Resilience Program began in 2018 after the Rural City of Wangaratta and local community took action to improve mental health and respond to suicide. Funded by the Federal Government through the Murray Primary Health Network, the program ran until June 2023 and focused on building connection, inclusion, and stronger community support. It created workshops, events, and community groups -many of which continue today.
When the program’s funding ended, the work shifted into a new state‑led initiative.
Introducing the Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG)
SIAG is funded by the Victorian Department of Health as part of the Victorian Government’s Social Inclusion Action Group program. This statewide program was created in response to the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, which recognised the importance of reducing loneliness, building belonging, and supporting strong, inclusive communities.
In Wangaratta, SIAG continues the foundations of Grit and Resilience by:
- strengthening social inclusion
- supporting community connection
- reducing isolation
- bringing together community members, council, and local services
SIAG represents the next chapter- continuing the spirit of Grit and Resilience with new support, new direction, and a statewide commitment to community wellbeing.
This is Grit and Resilience