Banyule Community Health has been working in the local community for over 44 years.

Heidelberg City Council Social Worker, Mary Morgan conducted an action research and needs analysis of the West Heidelberg community in response to the Henderson Poverty Inquiry.  Her research started in June 1973 and presented in January 1974 to Professor Henderson. Many people at the time were experiencing the impacts of generational poverty, family breakdown, unemployment, the trauma of war and had poor access to supports. Mary unearthed a movement of local people and local services demanding improved access to health, welfare, education, housing, employment and justice services. This was a ground up, social determinants movement driven by a vibrant and engaged community.

Local services such as Austin Health, La Trobe University, YMCA, local Council, local schools and churches were crucial first partners in establishing the West Heidelberg Community Health and Welfare Centre. Opening in 1975, in the Administration Block of the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games Village in West Heidelberg, the service quickly grew to become an integrated health, welfare and justice service. Locally the service became known as The Centre. Good health was about connection.