Petition Funding for the Tools For The Trade program

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council that Tools For The Trade (TFTT) is a proven early intervention program that has supported vulnerable young people across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula for over a decade.

With a 90 per cent success rate in re-engaging 15 to 19-year-olds into education, training and employment, TFTT provides structure, skills and hope when needed most. Despite this success, TFTT is unfunded beyond July 2025 and faces closure without urgent government support.

Many young people will lose a vital opportunity to reconnect with education, community and work. Each year, thousands of young Victorians disengage from school and training, facing greater risks of mental illness, unemployment and social isolation. Youth offending among 10 to 17-year-olds is now at its highest rate since electronic records began in 1993. When young people disengage from education, family and community, they are more likely to engage in crime and other risks. TFTT offers more than skills; it provides stability, connection and a real chance to build a positive future. Without action, we risk losing a program that has changed young lives and is ready to expand across Victoria.

TFTT is a proven early intervention program that reconnects disengaged young people with education, training and employment, while building their confidence and resilience. Continued investment will prevent more young people from falling through the cracks, reduce demand on justice, health and housing services, and strengthen communities across Victoria. We urge the Government to recognise the urgent need for programs like TFTT and commit to supporting its delivery and expansion into other areas where youth disengagement is rising. With the right support, more young Victorians can build positive futures and contribute to their communities.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to urgently secure ongoing funding for the Tools For The Trade program beyond July 2025.