A new regional safety report has reinforced the need to invest in local youth programs, with Glen Innes Severn Council backing calls for stronger early intervention to improve community safety.
The findings come from a NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into community safety in regional and rural communities, which highlighted the importance of prevention, early support and strong local connections.
Mayor Margot Davis said the report reflects what regional communities already know.
“The report confirms that community safety is strongest when we invest early and work locally,” Mayor Davis said.
“That aligns closely with what we are already doing here in Glen Innes Severn, particularly through youth engagement and creating safe, supportive spaces for young people.”
Mayor Davis pointed to the council’s Youth Booth as an example of a successful local initiative.
“The Youth Booth is not just a place for young people to go. It is a place they help shape and lead. Young people are involved in decisions about activities and how the space operates,” she said.
“That sense of ownership builds trust, connection and responsibility, and that is where real engagement happens.”
She said strong partnerships with family and support services were key to the success of youth programs, but there was an opportunity to expand what is already working.
“The message from this report is clear. If we want safer communities over the long term, we need to invest earlier and closer to the ground, and properly support the services already embedded in regional towns,” Mayor Davis said.
Council is now calling on the NSW Government to provide direct funding for council-led and community-led youth programs, as well as investment in facilities that support early intervention and engagement.
“With targeted investment, we can expand youth-led programs, strengthen partnerships with local service providers, and improve or develop facilities that provide safe, accessible spaces for young people,” she said.
“This is a practical, long-term approach to community safety. Investing in young people reduces pressure on policing, the justice system and social services, and helps young people stay connected to their community.”
Council said it would continue to advocate for a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to community safety, working alongside local organisations and service providers.
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