The Andrews Labor Government is putting $200,000 behind a Wodonga program designed to keep young Aboriginal Victorians out of the justice system.
The Burraja Koori Youth and Young People Project Journeys initiative will receive the funding as part of a $2.2 million Government push to increase community safety and address the root causes of crime.
The initiative uses culturally specific programs to reconnect young people with their culture, improve their sense of belonging and reduce interactions with the justice system.
Some of these activities undertaken through the program include this year’s NAIDOC theme, Songlines, which incorporates Traditional Lore, song, dance, music and art.
Young people will visit a local cultural site to develop their cultural skills, including understanding the significance of storytelling and cultural identity.
Local Aboriginal Elders and community leaders will help provide positive role models to young participants, while Wodonga service providers will undertake cultural awareness training to help them deliver culturally appropriate service responses.
Gateway Health and Wodonga Aboriginal Network are delivering the innovative project in partnership with local Wodonga service providers.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins announced the funding in Wodonga today on behalf of the Minister for Police Lisa Neville.
It forms part of the government’s broader Community Crime Prevention program, which received a $19.4 million funding injection over two years in the 2016-17 State Budget.
More information about the program is available at crimeprevention.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins
“We’re working closely with Victorian Aboriginal communities, councils and organisations across Victoria to tackle crime at a local level and prevent people coming into contact with the justice system.”
“We know that building stronger, healthier and more inclusive communities helps create safer communities.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“Local communities know local issues and the Andrews Labor Government is proud to provide $200,000 to support a safer, more engaged and inclusive Wodonga.”
“Wodonga is a proud and diverse community and it’s wonderful to see so many locals working together to improve outcomes for Aboriginal Victorians in the North East.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020