The **Minns Labor Government** has announced a significant investment of **$15.6 million** in partnership with the **Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC)** to create life-changing opportunities for young people in regional and remote areas of **New South Wales (NSW)**. This funding aims to address the increasing social challenges faced by youth, including educational disengagement, unemployment, and poor mental health, which often contribute to anti-social behaviour.
The funding will support **278 programs** over a four-year period, with the **Minns Government** contributing **$10 million** and PCYC providing **$5.66 million**. The initiative will enable PCYC to enhance its outreach across 22 locations, including **Walgett, Kempsey, Bourke, Broken Hill, Moree**, and **Lismore**. The programs will be tailored based on community needs, utilizing data from local police and insights from PCYC’s Youth Programs team.
Targeted Programs for Youth Development
The partnership focuses on several key areas to empower young people. Programs such as **Employability Fit for Work**, **Job Ready**, and **Stepping Up** are designed to prepare youth facing disadvantage for meaningful employment. Additionally, initiatives like **GRIT** (Growth-mindset Resilience Intervention for Teenagers) will foster resilience and confidence, while cultural programs like **U-Nites** and **Indigenous All-Stars Sporting Pathways** will promote community connection and cultural understanding.
The **Minns Labor Government** emphasizes the importance of addressing youth crime and preventing at-risk individuals from entering the justice system. The funding will transition PCYC programs from short-term to sustained engagements, ensuring consistent support and guidance for young people over several years.
Yasmin Catley, the **Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism**, stated, “Regional youth crime is something we are determined to tackle head-on. PCYCs provide positive spaces where police and young people can build trust and respect.” Her commitment reflects a broader strategy to equip communities with the necessary tools for lasting change.
Building a Foundation for Future Success
Tara Moriarty, the **Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW**, highlighted the comprehensive nature of this initiative. “This multi-year funding commitment will be a game changer for young people across regional NSW,” she said. The partnership will not only support existing programs but will also facilitate new ones that cater to the specific needs of communities, fostering pathways to education and employment.
PCYC NSW CEO **Ben Hobby** noted that youth in regional areas are disproportionately affected by unemployment and educational challenges. “Increasing access to PCYC Youth Programs in regional NSW is essential for early intervention,” he stated. This proactive approach aims to break cycles of disadvantage and empower young individuals to create a better future for themselves and their communities.
This new funding builds upon previous commitments, including **$271,950** announced in **February 2025** for a partnership with the **National Rugby League** to deliver a youth empowerment program focused on resilience and community engagement.
The **NSW Police Force** continues to address youth crime through operations like **Operation Soteria**, which has resulted in over **300 charges** related to more than **1,800 offences**. This ongoing effort underscores the government’s commitment to tackling youth crime and enhancing community safety.
With the announcement of this partnership, further details regarding the implementation of new youth programs are expected soon. The collective efforts by government officials and community organizations highlight a dedicated approach to improving the lives of young people across regional NSW.
