Safer communities funding for Intereach

Intereach will deliver a program to engage young people after a successful funding application. 

 Intereach has been granted funding under the Australian Government’s Safer Communities Fund Round 6 – Early Intervention. 

 It will enable the delivery of a project that will engage young people aged 12 to 17 years in Albury, Wodonga, Greater Hume, Federation and Indigo Shire areas in a holistic program focused on building skills in regulation, resilience, communication and teamwork in both an individual and group setting. 

 Intereach Acting CEO Yvette Buhagiar said they were delighted to be advised of the successful funding application. 

 “The project will involve young people in service design and naming of the project, and provides case management throughout the duration of the program. The young people participating in the program will also have the opportunity to design, promote and plan a youth-led community event to develop practical job skills. 

 “We are finalising timeframes for delivery of this project and progressing with planning for implementation,” Ms Buhagiar said. 

 She extended thanks to Intereach team members Robert Phillips, Alex Novak, Simone Murphy, Mardi Chartres, Nathan Lorenzon, Ash Lythgo, Sarah Williams and all those involved in the submission of the tender application. Consultation with valued community partners informed the design of the project and established areas of need. 

 “It was the passion of these people that brought the project to life. I look forward to Intereach delivering this project for vulnerable young people in our communities,” Ms Buhagiar said. 

 This round of the Safer Communities Fund, through the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources, targeted organisations with experience in providing early intervention activities to youth at high risk to prevent them from engaging in criminal activity or anti-social behaviour. 

 The objectives of the grant are to: 

•  Contribute to the preservation of the safety of Australians through funding local crime prevention activities that address anti-social behaviour by youth at high risk; 
• Help marginalised youth at high risk develop life skills, including thorough educational and vocational skills, to prevent them from becoming entrenched in the criminal justice system, promote inclusion, and build community resilience. 

 Intereach has 17 offices across southern NSW, north/central Victoria and Mallee, with a total staff of more than 460. 

 Intereach supports children and families, older people, people living with disability, mental health and carers. If you, or someone you know, needs support, you can contact the team at Intereach on the toll-free number 1300 488 226 or go to www.intereach.com.au.