Young people in communities hit hardest by the impacts of drought, bushfire and COVID-19 border closures will enjoy a mix of free and subsidised activities this summer, with the help of funding from the NSW Government.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro, Minister for Regional Youth Bronnie Taylor and Acting Minister for Sport and Minister for Skills Geoff Lee today announced the Summer Break program for Regional Youth.
Mr Barilaro said after a challenging year, young people in 51 local government areas across the state will be able to participate in sports and recreation camps, short-courses, barbecue and beats disco events or enjoy extended opening hours at council facilities over the summer.
"While much of regional NSW is on track for recovery, a number of communities are still coming to terms with the fallout of bushfires, COVID border closures or enduring impacts of drought so I know this announcement will be welcome news for families," Mr Barilaro said.
"Up to $10,000 will be made available to impacted councils to cover the costs of running youth events or to extend youth services between 16 December 2020 and 4 February 2021, while a share in a fund worth $85,000 will allow approximately 20 PCYCs in affected towns to run Barbecue and Beats discos."
Mrs Taylor said the initiative follows the NSW Government's successful Drought Break program which was launched in December 2019 to support young people in more than 30 drought-affected communities in the state's central, north and far west regions.
"I have heard first-hand the overwhelmingly positive feedback from last year's Drought Break program which first came to life with the help of the Regional Youth Taskforce and brought together kids, parents, carers and wider communities to have fun," Mrs Taylor said.
"I'm thrilled to confirm further funding to bring back this brilliant initiative that will give regional youth a fair opportunity to relax and enjoy themselves throughout summer."
Mr Lee said the NSW Government will provide more than 500 free places for young people at 14 camps to enjoy activities such as archery, kayaking and cooking craft with meals and accommodation included and free transport provided.
"Last year's free sport and recreation camps were really popular for hundreds of young people in drought communities and I know this year will be no different," Mr Lee said.
"The popular Summer Skills program has returned with opportunities for 15 to 24 year olds in health, construction, business, agribusiness, hospitality and retail."
