Funding to help reduce youth crime in Far North

A Far North Queensland organisation will receive $225,000 in Queensland Government funding to continue its efforts to reduce youth crime.

Communities Minister and Member for Mulgrave Warren Pitt said CHOICE Australia Management would receive $75,000 a year for three years to operate the CHOICES for the Future Program in Innisfail.

Mr Pitt said the program aimed to reduce youth crime through the personal development of young people aged 10 to 17 years who were at risk of offending or re-offending.

“Program participants are involved in a range of activities to increase their self-esteem, confidence and respect for themselves and others,” he said.

“The program also teaches them life skills with a focus on future employment, training and education opportunities.”

Mr Pitt said the Department of Communities’ Far North Queensland Youth Justice Service often referred clients to the CHOICES for the Future Program, with positive results achieved as a result of these interventions.

“The program addresses a wide range of issues including substance abuse, anger management, impulse control and victim empathy,” Mr Pitt said.

“I am pleased that this program will now continue for another three years, helping young people in Far North Queensland who are at risk of offending or re-offending, and guiding them towards a more positive path in life.”

Media contact: Peter Nibbs 3235 4280