NEARLY $1 million will flow to the Barwon electorate to help improve community safety and divert young people at risk of entering the justice system, through a range of locally-led initiatives.

Four projects in Wilcannia, Walgett and Brewarrina will receive funding through the State Government’s Community Safety Investment Fund.

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said prevention and early intervention must be central to reducing youth crime long-term.

“In communities across Barwon, access to services and opportunities can be limited, which is why these kinds of programs are so important,” Mr Butler said.

“If we’re serious about reducing youth crime, we need to invest in early intervention and give young people positive pathways that steer them in the right direction.

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said prevention and early intervention must be central to reducing youth crime long-term.

“This funding is about backing our community to lead the solutions. The people on the ground know what works, and these grants give them the support to get on with the job—keeping young people engaged and our community safe,” Mr Butler said.

Walgett Cultural and Community Aboriginal Corporation will receive $290,000 for the Strong Culture Youth Pathways program, which supports young people through hands-on cultural learning, mentoring, youth group activities, and guided campouts that strengthen their identity, resilience, sense of belonging and connection to the community.

Winmarra Foundation’s Winmarra Emerging Leaders Program will receive $300,000.

The Brewarrina-based program combines consistent mentoring, on-Country cultural learning, leadership development and family engagement to strengthen identity, confidence and positive life pathways.

More than $14,000 will go to Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation for the Wilcannia Outdoor Movie Theatre at the Police Courtyard – Building Stronger Futures Together.

Dharriwaa Elders Group will receive $299,726 for Yanaarr-dhuul-gal ngaarr – Strong Young Women – Walgett Youth Wellbeing Service to support Aboriginal girls and young women aged 10-17 years and families in Walgett through weekday and out-of-hours mentoring and activities.

Full details of the grants available HERE.