Bourke’s Youth Off The Streets will share in a $2 million Federal Government grant to support at-risk youth through early intervention services, life skills training and one-on-one care.

Member for Parkes Mark Coulton announced the funding today, which has been committed under Round 3 of the Coalition’s $30 million Safer Communities Fund.

“I’d like to commend Youth Off The Streets on successfully receiving this grant, which will be used to support youth in a number of locations, including in Bourke,” Mr Coulton said.

“This project targets youth engaging in, or at risk of engaging in, anti-social or criminal behaviour through recreational activities to build trust and engagement, prior to referral into specialist support.

“Only safe communities can be strong and prosperous, and the best way to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour is to prevent it from happening. Delivery of this project will help Bourke’s youth and the local community to feel safer, and increase youth inclusion and resilience.”

Mr Coulton said the funding will support activities in nine locations in New South Wales, including Bourke, and one location in Queensland.

Also successful in receiving funding under this program is the Dubbo PCYC, which will share in $1,987,634 committed to PCYC NSW for the Fit for Life/Fit for Work program.

The Safer Communities Fund initially received $40 million to support local communities to address crime and anti-social behaviour. This further commitment brings the total amount available under the Safer Communities Fund to $70 million between 2016-17 and 2019-20.

Minister for Home Affairs Peter Dutton said that all Australians have a right to feel safe and secure when their communities come together.

“The Coalition will continue to assist local councils and organisations to address crime and anti-social behaviour and make our nation safer,” Mr Dutton said.

The Coalition has now committed $138 million across Australia to deliver on various strategies designed to strengthen communities.

Announcements regarding other successful recipients of Safer Communities funding in the Parkes electorate will be made in the near future.