$1 million boost for Thuringowa Child Safety Service Centre

Child Safety Minister Margaret Keech today announced a funding boost of more than $1 million to help keep Thuringowa’s at risk children safe.

Mrs Keech said the Bligh Government investment of $1.1 million in the relocation and expansion of the Thuringowa Child Safety Service Centre is due for completion early to mid this year.

“The Bligh Government is improving services and creating jobs,” Mrs Keech said.

“The new Thuringowa centre is a very welcome boost to my Department’s child protection efforts in the area and the region’s economy.

“The custom-designed fit-out will provide improved facilities and services enabling my Department to better protect Thuringowa’s at risk children.”

The Thuringowa CSSC expansion is part of the Bligh Government’s plans to spend a further $8.332 million on Child Safety offices across the state up until 30 June 2010.

The Government has already invested more than $26 million to complete 43 Child Safety office projects.

Member for Thuringowa Craig Wallace said the Bligh Government’s infrastructure program was a economic boost to the region.

“The new centre will not only improve services for Thuringowa’s at risk children but has also created 25 local jobs in the refurbishment and relocation process,” Mr Wallace said.

“By continuing to invest in Queensland’s services the Bligh Government is stimulating our local economy.

“I would also like to thank Thuringowa’s Child Safety staff for their commitment to children in need and wish them a bright future at the new centre.”

The new Child Safety Centre will accommodate 44 workstations (including six offices), five interview rooms (including a high-security room), foster carer room, two quiet rooms, conference room, reception, waiting area, data room, utilities area, secure car parking and visitors car parking.

For more information on becoming a foster carer or kinship carer, contact the Department of Child Safety on 1300 550 877 or www.childsafety.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media contact: Nadine Eckert (Minister’s Office) direct 3235 9236