The Finocchiaro CLP Government's early intervention Circuit Breaker Program is helping break the cycle of crime by addressing its root causes across the Territory, including in Katherine.
The Circuit Breaker Program is a key part of real investment in prevention with a strong emphasis on youth engagement, family safety and community wellbeing, with $6.6 million per annum in ongoing funding for Circuit Breaker, now operating in Darwin, Alice Springs and Katherine.
Minister for Children and Families Robyn Cahill said since launching in December 2024, the Circuit Breaker Program has supported 145 Territory families doing it tough.
In its first few months, 145 Circuit Breaker cases commenced, 91 Family Responsibility Agreements were established, and 28 young people were referred to a safe place when they couldn't stay safely at home.
"The early success of the Circuit Breaker Program shows the importance of why our first Budget addresses the drivers of crime at their source, so our kids are supported, families are strong, and communities are safer," said Ms Cahill.
"Through Family Responsibility Agreements, we are holding parents accountable and providing access to the support services they need."
Minister for Education and Training, and Member for Katherine, Jo Hersey said the Circuit Breaker Program was having a big impact in Katherine and the Big Rivers region.
"We are supporting families and tackling antisocial behaviour early by working with young people and their parents here in Katherine," said Mrs Hersey.
There have been 24 Circuit Breaker cases with 17 Family Responsibility Agreements holding parents accountable.
"I've been out with the nightly patrollers team in Katherine and seen the circuit breaker team first hand," said Mrs Hersey.
"In our year of action, certainty and security, I look forward to the expansion of the circuit breaker program in Katherine to ensure we continue to address the root causes of crime and anti-social behaviour."
Circuit Breaker works with local Police, the Department of Education and Training, the Department of Health and non-government organisations to look at what's going on for the child and family, including school attendance, unsafe homelife and any medical and mental health concerns.
A staged rollout of Circuit Breaker is continuing across the Territory, with plans underway to establish the program in Tennant Creek and Nhulunbuy by the end of 2025.
"The CLP is committed to helping families with real action making a difference through programs such as Circuit Breaker," said Ms Cahill.
