From developing work ready skills, to improving access to digital technology, young people across the Dubbo electorate will be empowered to build their own future through a $40 million investment by the NSW Government.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said the new “Our Region, Our Voice” program would offer grants of up to $3 million for targeted local initiatives, help regional youth reach their full potential.
“It’s absolutely vital that our youth have opportunities for meaningful work and education, accessible heath care, and can thrive within their local communities,” Mr Saunders said.
“This program is all about empowering our regional youth to drive local solutions to local issues.
“I’m strongly urging councils, schools, not-for-profit organisations and Local Aborginal Land Councils to apply.”
The funding will be allocated across nine areas identified as high priorities by the Regional Youth Taskforce and Regional Youth Insights – the largest regional youth research project ever commissioned by the NSW Government.
Youth Community Coordinator for the Central West James Cleaver said the ‘Our Region, Our Voice’ program would provide significant benefits for youth across the region.
“The ‘Our Region, Our Voice’ Regional Youth Investment Program allows communities to tell our service what they need on the ground for young people to thrive in our area,” Mr Cleaver said.
“We’re trying to listen to those needs and empower communities to address them.”
The ‘Our Region, Our Voice’ has funding available for projects to:
- Enhance high school engagement and retention
- Develop work ready skills, knowledge and networks
- Increase access and quality of health services including provision of youth services
- Improve access to public and private transport
- Better access to digital technology and digital skills
- Deliver more community youth projects
- Support at risk-youth
- Assist young people to secure affordable housing
Applications for the Regional Youth Investment Program are now open and will close at 10am, October 4, 2022. For further information go to www.nsw.gov.au/regionalyouthinvestmentprogram