Thursday, 5 February 2026

 Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice) (12:05): Two weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending the graduation of the first cohort to complete the 16 Yards mentoring program at Parkville youth justice centre. This cohort chose to engage with a program that asks young people to show up, reflect honestly and take responsibility for their choices. That it is not easy work, especially in custody, and it deserves to be acknowledged. Lived experience is the cornerstone of this program. This is a cutting-edge approach that is proven to change lives. It pairs young people with mentors who understand the justice system because they have lived it themselves. These shared experiences bring credibility and trust and break down barriers. These mentors do not talk at young people; they work with them and show by example that a difficult past does not prevent a positive future.

I want to acknowledge the leadership of 16 Yards co-founders Dr Stephane Shepherd and Shayne Hood as well as the mentors who delivered the program on the ground, particularly Jesse and Moses. Their work is practical, consistent and grounded in respect, and it reflects best practices for supporting young people to make better choices. I also want to thank the hardworking youth justice team for their commitment to supporting partnerships with community organisations that deliver meaningful programs like this inside our custodial facilities.

As Minister for Youth Justice I am proud to be delivering programs like 16 Yards as part of the comprehensive work that we do to keep the community safe. As the Premier said last year, serious consequences but also early interventions and prevention. To the young people who made this first graduating cohort, completing this program was not automatic. You earned it through engagement and effort. You should be proud of what you achieved, and I encourage you to keep building on it as you move forward. Congratulations to all.

The PRESIDENT: Before I call the next question, I acknowledge in the gallery former member of Parliament and minister Heidi Victoria.