Benham welcomes new Youth Crime Prevention Program
The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham has welcomed the announcement of a new Youth Crime Prevention Program (YCPP) for Mildura.
The program, which is to be delivered through Hands Up Mallee (HUM) and Sunraysia Community Health Services (SCHS) aims to support young people aged 10 to 24 who are at risk of, or have had contact with, the justice system. It will include intensive case management, mentoring, and pro-social activities designed to steer young people away from crime and toward a more positive path.
“This announcement responds to serious and longstanding concerns in our community about youth crime and the need for localised, early-intervention solutions,” Ms Benham said.
“Our community has been crying out for help and I’ve consistently raised the need for tailored, localised support that addresses the causes of crime before it escalates. I’m pleased to see some of those calls finally being heard.”
Ms Benham recognised the work of Jane McCracken, Executive Officer of Hands Up Mallee, for her dedicated efforts in applying for funding.
“Jane has been instrumental in bringing this initiative to life. Her commitment to collaborative, community-led action is exactly what’s needed to make real progress on tackling youth crime,” Ms Benham said.
Sunraysia Community Health Services and Hands Up Mallee have been identified as local delivery partners through engagement with local stakeholders. Both organisations are trusted local providers of health and wellbeing services with strong relationships with local Aboriginal communities. They consistently deliver programs that are stable, trusted and genuinely connected to our community.
“This is a welcome step, but the work doesn’t stop here. We must continue backing local solutions, listening to community voices, and ensuring programs like this are properly resourced and here to stay.”
