And just as vital now are programs teaching residents about living in a more environmentally friendly way to secure the future.

Co-ordinator Estela Torredimare said residents had ``reacted fantastically'' to the green information around the centre.

``We have mostly groups from Vietnamese and Spanish backgrounds and they've really embraced the ways they can not only contribute to the community but also save money,'' Ms Torredimare said.

``We have simple suggestions like the energy-saving light bulbs and shower heads, but they've also responded really well to no-dig gardens, where you build gardens on top of compost heaps with recycled newspapers to keep them moist.

``What we've also found is it comes completely naturally for them, because back home their parents were very careful not to waste resources and now they're returning to that way of living.''

More green ideas: easybeinggreen.com.au.