Extra support for vulnerable children, families in the South Burnett

Communities in the South Burnett now have access to an intensive support service for vulnerable children and their families.

Communities Minister Warren Pitt said the new Referral for Active Intervention Service, or RAI, was one of 10 services established under an $8.5 million Department of Communities initiative.

“Lifeline Community Care received Queensland Government funding of about $515,000 to establish the vital community service in Victoria St, Kingaroy, for the South Burnett,” Mr Pitt said.

“The importance of local knowledge and experience cannot be underestimated so I congratulate Lifeline Community Care for embracing this important role.

“The South Burnett RAI will target local young children and families who have been assessed as low risk within the child protection system but who could benefit from active intervention.

“Clients will have access to support services including information, assistance with every-day tasks such as budgeting and behaviour management, and access to an individual case manager.”

Mr Pitt said the initiative would help reduce the number of families falling into crisis and their children going into the care of the Department of Child Safety.

“The Referral for Active Intervention program is specifically designed to help children from birth to eight years, and their families,” he said.

“I am confident this service will benefit vulnerable children and their families as well as the wider South Burnett community.”

Department of Communities Regional Director for the Wide Bay–Burnett region, Carol Weekes, officially launched the service today on behalf of Mr Pitt.

Other RAI services are operating in Toowoomba, Beenleigh/Eagleby/Logan, Ipswich, Inala/Goodna, Caboolture/Deception Bay/Redcliffe, Rockhampton, South Gold Coast Townsville/Thuringowa and Cairns.

Media contact: Peter Nibbs 3235 4280