Improved services for young people in Mackay–Whitsunday region

Services for Mackay–Whitsunday young people who come into contact with the youth justice system have been improved with the building of an $850,000 office in Mackay.

Communities Minister Warren Pitt said the Youth Justice Service Centre, on the corner of Wood Street and Gordon streets, was part of the government’s efforts to address youth offending.

“This centre is one of 15 across the state that aim to provide the best possible chance of rehabilitation for those involved with the youth justice system,” Mr Pitt said.

“The purpose-designed Mackay Youth Justice Service Centre provides for specialist responses to offenders, including youth justice conferencing, resulting in better outcomes for young people, their families and the wider community.”

Member for Mackay Tim Mulherin said the centre would include training facilities and support services designed to rehabilitate young people and divert them from the youth justice system.

“The centre means that we can provide more effective and efficient service delivery, and better outcomes for young people and the community in general,” Mr Mulherin said.

“The centre enables a comprehensive and cooperative approach to helping the region’s vulnerable young people and making suburbs safer places.”

The new office telephone number during business hours is 4967 2360.

Media contacts: Mr Pitt’s Office 0417 789 208; Mr Mulherin’s Office 0409 305 662