From developing work ready skills, improving health services to improving access to digital technology, young people in the region will be empowered to build their own future through a $40 million investment by the NSW Government.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said the new $40 million ‘Our Region, Our Voice’ program, would offer grants of up to $3 million for targeted local initiatives to help regional youth reach their full potential.
“This fantastic program is available for projects which reflect the needs and aspirations of young people across regional NSW, supporting them to learn, gain employment, be mentally and physically healthy, to be safe and to thrive in their community,” Ms Cooke said.
Minister for Regional Youth Ben Franklin said the funding will be allocated across nine areas identified as high priorities by the Regional Youth Taskforce and Regional Youth Insights – the largest regional youth research project ever commissioned by the NSW Government.
“From more mental health support and improved career pathways to greater recreational activities and reliable public transport, this research told us exactly what our regional youth want and need,” Mr Franklin said.
“This record investment allows the NSW Government to deliver targeted and collaborative support measures that build on the work we are already doing to ensure regional youth reach their full potential, without having to move to a major city.”
Youth Community Coordinator for the Riverina Murray Renee Cooper said the ‘Our Region Our Voice’ Regional Youth Investment Program will allow communities to improve the outcomes and the experiences for young people across the Riverina Murray by delivering local programs to meet local needs.
“What a great opportunity for our communities to really hear and respond to the voices of our young people and show them that they are valued and supported,” Ms Cooper said.
The ‘Our Region, Our Voice’ has funding available for projects to:
- Enhance high school engagement and retention
- Develop work ready skills, knowledge and networks
- Increase access and quality of health services including provision of youth services
- Improve access to public and private transport
- Better access to digital technology and digital skills
- Deliver more community youth projects
- Support at risk-youth
- Assist young people to secure affordable housing
The priority for the Riverina Murray area is to improve access to mental health services. 53 per centof young people in the Riverina Murray region listed better mental health support as the initiative that would most support young people living healthier lives.
The second priority for the region is for improved access to reduce youth homelessness. 34 per centof young people in the Riverina Murray region listed access to affordable housing as an initiative that would improve their town and surrounding areas.
The $40 million package is part of the NSW Government’s record investment in regional youth through the 2022-23 NSW Budget.
Applications for the Regional Youth Investment Program are now open and will close at 10am, October 4, 2022.
For further information on the ‘Our Region, Our Voice’ Regional Youth Investment Program, visit www.nsw.gov.au/regionalyouthinvestmentprogram
