An organisation that works with at-risk youth in the Dubbo electorate will be able to roll out some of its road safety programs thanks to funding from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders announced that Youthsafe had been granted $50,997 to help participants in the PCYC’s Fit For Work program undertake the Graduated Licensing Scheme (GLS) and mentor them in the development of low-risk driving behaviours.
“Youthsafe does a tremendous job with kids who have become disengaged and don’t know where they fit in to the community,” Mr Saunders said.
“This program is a wonderful example of showing what can be achieved when we work with these children. They learn about being responsible behind the wheel and that is terrific because we know that every time we get behind the wheel our actions can have a big impact on others.”
Youthsafe, which has been supporting communities for more than 35 years, will provide a complimentary and customised range of services, resources and opportunities over the next three years to progress their understanding of and engagement with the Graduated Licensing Scheme (GLS).
The organisation’s chief executive Warren Johnson said he is delighted to be receiving the funding.
“The $51,000 granted over three years will allow us to support young people in Dubbo to gain their driver’s licence, which we know is essential to accessing employment, education and social opportunities, while developing safer driver behaviours,” Mr Johnson said.
“Navigating the Graduated Licensing Scheme and getting the hours needed to get a driver’s licence is a real challenge, particularly for those who don’t have family support and those living outside major metropolitan areas. “We look forward to working with local community groups to support at-risk young people in Dubbo to help them get the assistance they need and we thank the State Government for providing this opportunity.”