Coalition supporting young people in Wyong

Member for Dobell, Ken Ticehurst took Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Larry Anthony, to the Oasis Youth Centre in Wyong today to see first hand the work that they do.

The Oasis Youth Centre offers recreational activities and support services for local young people and their families.

“Young people often face a range of pressures, and in order to help them, we need to provide services which are flexible, effective, and relevant to the circumstances of young people and their families,” Mr Anthony said.

“We need to work with communities and young people to identify solutions and fix problems before they occur. This in turn helps young people avoid the patterns of behaviour that can place them at risk.

“The Oasis Youth Centre is a good example of these principles in action. The centre is making a real difference to young people in the area by helping them to relate to their families, while boosting their self-esteem, confidence and communications skills,” Mr Anthony said.

Mr Ticehurst said that as well as employment and training programs and counselling, the centre offers a skate park, gym, drop-in centre, free health clinic and court support.

“The centre also provides a range of innovative programs to help young people develop their social, interpersonal, education and employment skills.

“Without help like this, young people can face problems including homelessness, drug and alcohol abuse, family breakdown and crime,” Mr Ticehurst said.

Mr Anthony said that through early intervention and prevention programs, young people are more able to make the right choices and go on to become capable, confident adults who can contribute to their communities.

“The Coalition Government recognises that young people are Australia’s future. We are working to deliver services that gives young people the best possible opportunities to develop their skills and to strengthen their family relationships,” Mr Anthony said.