GLEN Innes Severn Council is celebrating a significant boost to community wellbeing, with two major funding commitments from the NSW Government set to strengthen early intervention, cultural safety, and long-term support for local families.

Council has secured $387,359 in renewed funding for The Youth Booth, guaranteeing the continuation and expansion of vital community strengthening services through to 2031.

The new agreement delivers a more than three-fold increase in annual funding, rising from $22,064.59 to $70,428.

Mayor Margot Davis said The Youth Booth plays a vital role in the lives of many young locals.

“This funding secures the future of The Youth Booth and the work it does with young people in our community,” Cr Davis said.

“It allows Council to keep building programs that give our youth a safe place to belong and the support they need to thrive.”

The Youth Booth will continue to deliver culturally safe, trauma-informed services that increase social participation and reduce risk factors that contribute to family vulnerability.

The expanded funding will enable Council to strengthen these supports and respond more effectively to community needs.

In another major step forward, Council also secured $278,117 over five years to establish a new Aboriginal Supported Playgroup, providing culturally grounded early childhood support for Aboriginal children aged 0-5 and their families in Glen Innes and Wytaliba.

“This program will create a welcoming space where Aboriginal families feel respected, connected and supported,” Cr Davis said.

Glen Innes Severn Council has secured $387,359 in renewed funding for The Youth Booth.

“It’s about strengthening culture, strengthening families, and giving children the best possible start in life.”

Council is now recruiting a Casual Aboriginal Supported playgroup facilitator to lead the weekly sessions.

The role will focus on play-based learning aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework, strengthening parent-child relationships, and connecting families with additional supports when needed.

Preference will be given to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants, recognising the importance of lived experience and cultural knowledge.

General Manager Bernard Smith encourages community members to consider applying.

“We’re looking for someone who brings strong cultural knowledge, community connection and a passion for supporting families,” Mr Smith said.

This is a meaningful opportunity to help shape a program that celebrates culture and supports children to thrive.”

Mayor Davis said the combined funding represents a major step forward for the region.

“These investments will have a lasting impact on our community,” she said.

“They give us the resources to deliver high-quality, culturally safe services that support families today and build a stronger, more connected Glen Innes Severn for the future.”