EXTRA SUPPORT FOR ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

The 2005-06 Stanhope Budget will enhance the capacity of the Office for Children, Youth and Family Support to assist young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The Minister for Children, Youth and Family Support, Ms Katy Gallagher said the Government would consolidate and expand the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit through the allocation of $2.9 million over four years.

“There is an urgent need to improve child protection services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people in the ACT,” Ms Gallagher said.

“Some $700,000 will be available in 2005-06 for the unit’s consolidation and expansion.” 

“It will provide comprehensive support to young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their carers, as well as case management support for young people at risk of abuse and neglect.” 

“Services provided will be culturally appropriate to child protection and youth justice clients.”

“The Government has established a number of other programs aimed at assisting young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, such as the Turnaround Program, the Schools as Communities initiative and Family Group Conferencing.”

“The allocation of money to expand and consolidate the Unit complements the funding included in the 2004-05 2nd Appropriation Act for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders,” the Minister concluded.
Statement ends