$40 Million For Youth To Build Their Own Future

From developing work-ready skills, improving health services to improving access to digital technology, young people in the region will be empowered to build their own future through a $40 million investment by the NSW Government.

The Our Region, Our Voice program offers grants of up to $3 million for targeted local initiatives to help regional youth reach their full potential.

It is available for projects that reflect the needs and aspirations of young people across regional NSW, to support them learn, gain employment, be mentally and physically healthy, to be safe and to thrive in their communities.

Minister for Regional Youth, Ben Franklin said the funding would be allocated across nine areas identified as high priorities by the Regional Youth Taskforce and Regional Youth Insights - the largest regional youth research project ever commissioned by the NSW Government.

“From more mental health support and improved career pathways to greater recreational activities and reliable public transport, this research told us exactly what our regional youth want and need,” Mr Franklin said.

“This record investment allows the NSW Government to deliver targeted and collaborative support measures that build on the work we are already doing to ensure regional youth reach their full potential, without having to move to a major city.”

Youth Community Coordinator for the Riverina Murray, Renee Cooper said the Our Region, Our Voice Regional Youth Investment Program would allow communities to improve the outcomes and the experiences for young people across the Riverina Murray by delivering local programs to meet local needs.

“What a great opportunity for our communities to really hear and respond to the voices of our young people and show them that they are valued and supported,” Ms Cooper said.

Funding is available for projects designed to:

• Enhance high school engagement and retention;
• Develop work-ready skills, knowledge and networks;
• Increase access and quality of health services including provision of youth services;
• Improve access to public and private transport;
• Better access to digital technology and digital skills;
• Deliver more community youth projects;
• Support at-risk youth; and
• Assist young people to secure affordable housing.

Improving access to mental health services is the priority for the Riverina Murray area.

Fiftythree percent of young people in the Riverina Murray region listed better mental health support as the initiative that would most support young people living healthier lives.

The region’s second priority, highlighted by 34 percent of young people, was improved access to reduce youth homelessness - they listed access to affordable housing as an initiative that would improve their town and surrounding areas.

Applications for a chunk of the $40 million Regional Youth Investment Program will close at 10 am on October 4.

Visit www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/our-region-our-voice-regional-youth-investment-program program for more information about Our Region, Our Voice Regional Youth Investment Program.

• Topics:

• Grant / Funding
• Health & Wellness
• Science and Technology