Sunshine Coast program wins award for preventing crime

SunshineCoast support service Najidah was awarded $2000 today at the Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards in Brisbane for its Kids Club program.

The awards are a national event recognising individuals and organisations in each state and territory that have significantly contributed to reducing crime and raising community awareness of crime and violence prevention.

Acting Communities Minister Kerry Shine said the organisation had made a positive contribution to community safety and crime prevention and it was important that its positive efforts were recognised.

“These awards highlight the significant impact each and every one of us can play in ensuring the community we live in is both peaceful and safe,” Mr Shine said.

The Najidah Kids Club program involves activity-based learning and life skills training, and uses discussion groups, therapeutic activities and visits from special guests.

The program runs once a week for six weeks and is designed for primary school-aged children who are living or have lived in Najidah crisis accommodation.

The Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards were established in 1993 and are a joint initiative of the Commonwealth, State and Territory governments to recognise individuals, community groups and other organisations that play an active role in preventing or reducing instances of crime and violence.

Mr Shine said it was important to acknowledge the efforts of community, business and government to reduce crime and violence

“The Queensland Government acknowledges it has a role to play in crime prevention, and since 1999, has developed a range of crime prevention programs and initiatives,” he said.

“This is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to developing innovative and effective responses to crime and violence prevention in Queensland.

“We acknowledge that the government cannot do it alone and the support of people and organisations such as those who have won awards is invaluable to preventing crime.”

11 December 2006

Media contact: Joe Begley 3235 4280