“Seen for their mistakes instead of their potential”: Program to prevent reoffending as part of $225m plan

Three major organisations have joined forces to deliver a new youth justice program in South West Queensland, focusing on rehabilitation over punishment.

Left to Right: Tahnee Ledgerwood, Trevor Watts, Laura Gerber, Dale Rogers, Lizzie Adams

Major South West Queensland mentoring organisations will lead the way to prevent youth reoffending throughout Toowoomba and the South West region.

Anglicare, OzChild and Goolburri will facilitate the youth justice rehabilitation program, Staying On Track.

Youth Justice Minister Laura Gerber was joined by Toowoomba North MP Trevor Watts to announce the program, providing 12 months of support for youth in detention.

The announcement was part of the government’s $225m contribution for statewide rehabilitation programs.

“Too often young people in the justice system are seen for their mistakes instead of their potential, this program aims to change that,” OzChild’s Dale Rogers said.

“Through mentoring, coaching and wraparound support this will help young people return to education, gain skills and employment and take their place back in the community.”

Left to Right: Laura Gerber, Trevor Watts, Dale Rogers (centre), Lizzie Adams

Mr Rogers said OzChild and Goolburri staff would work together within the program to deliver services to Indigenous peoples and bring cultural knowledge and local community connection.

“Many of the young people who are coming into this program are First Nations and that’s why partnering with Goolburri matters so much to us, I mean this is a true partnership,” he said.

Left to right: Tahnee Ledgerwood, Laura Gerber, Trevor Watts, Dale Rogers, Lizzie Adams

Anglicare Southern Queensland general manager Tahnee Ledgerwood said the organisation’s aim was to promote wellbeing and provide practical support.

“We know firsthand how important a planned transition and tailored support are for our young people who are exiting detention,” Ms Ledgerwood said.

Left to right: Laura Gerber, Trevor Watts, Tahnee Ledgerwood (centre), Dale Rogers, Lizzie Adams

Ms Gerber said strong laws were important for the government but they needed to deliver early intervention and rehabilitation.

“While these youth need consequences for actions, they also need a chance to not reoffend and they need to be set up to ensure that they are given the best circumstances to not reoffend,” Ms Gerber said.

Originally published as “Seen for their mistakes instead of their potential”: Program to prevent reoffending as part of $225m plan