The McGowan Labor Government today announced a further $18 million in the 2021-22 State Budget for Police and Community Youth Centres to enhance its services and programs across WA, as committed at the 2021 State Election.
Premier Mark McGowan and Police Minister Paul Papalia made the major funding announcement while joining members of the Carnarvon community to open the town's redeveloped PCYC.
Today's announcement of new funding is in addition to the more than $19 million provided to PCYC since the McGowan Government came to office.
The funding injection will allow PCYC to enhance its range of programs, aimed at positively engaging with young people.
The Carnarvon facility, which is located on the site of the former Carnarvon High School, has undergone a major redevelopment to expand its capacity and better meet the needs of young people in the town.
It includes:
- New fitness gym, refurbished change rooms and bathrooms
- Newly constructed automotive workshop and commercial kitchen
- New activity areas, classrooms, meeting room and reception area
- Replacement floor finishes, painting, new windows, security screens and blinds
- Upgraded security and air conditioning systems
The Carnarvon facility upgrades follow the opening of the newly refurbished $1.3 million Broome PCYC at the weekend.
The McGowan Government's record investment in policing has also allowed police to deploy additional Youth Policing Officers to Broome, Carnarvon and other regional towns to provide mentorship, case management and coaching for at-risk youth.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"PCYC has a proud history of delivering programs that positively engage young people and encourage them to participate in productive activities.
"As a community we need to try to prevent young people from becoming caught up in criminal behaviour in the first place, and PCYCs often provide the support and mentoring some young people need.
"That's why my Government has invested heavily in early intervention programs like PCYC, particularly in regional communities.
"Today's major funding announcement will ensure PCYC can continue its good work throughout Western Australia."
As stated by Police Minister Paul Papalia:
"Not only are we recruiting more police, but we are investing significantly in addressing some of the root causes of juvenile crime.
"PCYC's give young people a space where they can participate in sport and other social activities.
"It keeps them off the streets, out of trouble and provides them with opportunities to develop their life skills.
"It is far better in the long run if we can intervene early, help young people get back on track and divert them away from a life of crime."
