Tuesday, 14 May 2024

Ministers statements: youth support

Natalie SULEYMAN (St Albans – Minister for Veterans, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Youth) (14:23): I rise today to update the house on how the Allan Labor government is backing our young people with the support they need to build a bright future. In this year’s budget our government has delivered $3.6 million for the Living Learning partnership program, building on our $13 million investment, because this budget is all about helping families, children and young people at the heart of our state. Partnering with Melbourne City Mission, the program is providing tailored, practical support for vulnerable young Victorians. We know that sometimes young people need a bit of help to get them back on track, and that is exactly what this program is all about. The program connects young people to education, skills, training or employment with the help they need to make it work.

Together with the member for Albert Park, we have seen firsthand the flexible education at Hester Hornbrook Academy and the wraparound support that youth workers and allied health services are providing for young people. This means kids can finish school while building their next steps and planning for their future. We have already seen many young people successfully complete this program and a new group starting this year. We know the benefits of providing early support for our young people so that they can reach their potential. Thank you to the team at Melbourne City Mission and also at Hester Hornbrook Academy for all the work that they do to support our young people. It is only Labor governments that make these important investments for young people as they navigate through their journey. The Allan Labor government will work every single day to help families and young people.