Tuesday, 3 March 2026

 Melina BATH (Eastern Victoria) (12:59): My question is to the Minister for Police. Minister, two years ago you promised the youth crime prevention and early intervention program would be delivered in the Latrobe Valley. Despite $6 million being allocated for the expansion across a number of sectors, including Latrobe Valley, my community has seen no rollout, no updates and no response, and you did not answer my correspondence from last year. Sadly, youth crime continues to rise across much of Gippsland, including the Latrobe Valley, and our local police along with families, businesses and community groups are bearing the brunt of this delay. Your government abolished all other crime prevention programs, leaving this one the only pathway to early intervention and prevention. My community should not have to wait longer. Minister, when will the youth crime prevention and early intervention program finally commence operation, and when will you be serving the Latrobe Valley in a much better capacity than you are now?