Barwon Community Legal Service in Geelong has received a $388,000 funding boost from the federal government to assist at-risk youth learn about the legal system.
Victorian senator Sarah Henderson said the Law for Life services program will also educate young people in areas including securing housing, obtaining a driver’s license and addressing financial difficulty and family issues.
“We are investing in community-led solutions to crime, and this program will help up to 360 at-risk youth build life skills and workforce capacity over the next two years,” she said.
“This program is about removing barriers to employment, education, and legal services to empower more young people for a better future.”
The funding was part of $20 million available through the government’s Safer Communities Fund – Round 6 – Early Intervention Grants.
Liberal Corio candidate Manish Patel said the program would have significant benefits for the region.
“I am proud the Morrison government is investing in targeted programs to reduce anti-social and criminal behaviour, through improving the lives of our at-risk youth,” he said.
“These programs have positive outcomes for the community as a whole through education and active engagement of young people.”
Corangamite candidate Stephanie Asher added early intervention programs were necessary to ensure Greater Geelong’s youth had the best opportunity to succeed.
“Early intervention is key to ensuring our at-risk youth are able to have access to the skills and resources which will put them on the right path,” she said.
“For this program to help so many young people boost their life skills is a great outcome.”
