On Country program won’t be reviewed until 2022, Last calls it a waste of funds

Not a single young person in the state government’s “On Country” program to crack down on youth crime has finished it, with one North Queensland MP calling the $1.5m scheme a waste of money.

Not a single young person in the state government’s “On Country” program to crack down on youth crime has finished it, with one North Queensland MP calling the $1.5m scheme a waste of money.

A recent question on notice from Traeger MP Robbie Katter revealed that 31 young people had been “accepted” into the Townsville On Country program trial since its inception, along with 33 young people in Cairns and 18 in Mount Isa.

It revealed that none had completed the six-week program since July last year.

Opposition police spokesman Dale Last said the program needed to be showing measurable results.

A 13yo girl is placed under arrest. Picture: Alix Sweeney

“The community deserves to know the KPIs about the program,” he said,

“Unless we’ve got real, measurable outcomes, it’s a complete waste of money.”

The program was announced as part of the state government’s five-point plan in March last year, alongside a 24/7 youth justice “strike team” and “tougher action on bail”.

A government spokeswoman said the “On Country” program would not be reviewed until next year.

Mr Last said this was not acceptable, and pushed for more frequent reviews.

“There should be at least quarterly reviews … we need to be able to see there is measurable success.”

Youth Justice Minister Leanne Linard said in response to the question on notice that the program was tailored to the needs of each child, and many remained on the books as they ventured into TAFE and other areas of support.

Leanne Linard MP, Minister for Children and Youth Justice and Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Estimates Hearing Parliament House, Brisbane. Photographer: Liam Kidston

“Because participation plans are tailored to the needs and circumstances of each individual … there is no standardised length, so the length of participation will vary,” Ms Linard said.

“We know these programs are having an impact because we are seeing more young people getting back into education and training.”

Originally published as On Country program won’t be reviewed until 2022, Last calls it a waste of funds