The Andrews Labor Government is helping the Youth Affairs Council of Victoria continue to support young people in Warrnambool and surrounding rural areas.
The Victorian Budget 2017/18 will invest $2.025 million over two years as part of the Regional Presence Project, for four regional offices run by youth sector partners to continue their valuable work across the state.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney today welcomed the funding, which will connect young people to education and community services, and provide local youth services with networking and capacity building.
The office assists young people – especially those experiencing disadvantage – by advocating on issues that affect them, helping them to meaningfully participate in their local communities and build personal, life and work-related skills.
The YACVic office in Warrnambool provides young people with increased access to youth services, more opportunities to participate in youth forums and youth led activities and greater connections to community.
Through this renewed funding, young people and youth services alike will benefit from range of programs to connect and participate in the community.
The Government is supporting young people in Victoria. In 2016 it announced its new Youth Policy: Building Stronger Youth Engagement in Victoria, which strengthens how government engages with young people, including those whose voices often go unheard.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“Young people in Warrnambool and surrounding rural areas have plenty to contribute – and this funding will help ensure they have access to the education, job opportunities and important community services they need to succeed.”
“The Youth Affairs Council helps young people have their voice heard in our community and beyond, so we can support them in the issues that matter most to them.”
“We are supporting youth in our area to get the support they need regardless of background, location or circumstance.”