Joint media release
Macleay Valley youth, young mothers and children escaping domestic violence and homelessness will soon have a safe place to go.
This vital community project funded by the Australian and NSW Governments will provide more than just crisis accommodation, it will offer services from the old Kempsey Ambulance Station site to help young people realise their potential.
Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said Kempsey youth in need deserved better services and the Federal Nationals Government would provide it through a major $6.5 million investment.
“Our young people are our future and I often see youth here in Kempsey suffering from family and domestic violence, homelessness and other challenges,” he said.
“Our Government’s Federal Budget particularly supported our youth as we know times have been tougher for them during COVID-19.
“The Kempsey community can rest assured that our Government has their back and that I am always advocating for improved services for this town, whether it be here at 85 Belgrave Street or down the road where the new $3.4 million headspace is being built.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Federal Government was committed to supporting our community’s most vulnerable people.
“This is the type of important social infrastructure that makes a difference to the lives of people experiencing homelessness or escaping domestic violence,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“Pat Conaghan is a champion for his local community and his advocacy for this funding is testament to how much he cares about the people of Cowper.”
A development application for this youth hub/family community centre is currently on exhibition through Kempsey Shire Council. It is proposed to have up to 24 rooms for crisis accommodation, as well as a common area for youth activities and a café.
NSW Minister for Housing and State Member for Oxley Melinda Pavey said the hub would also offer important wrap around services to ensure occupants are supported.
“This project is going to be far more than crisis accommodation, it’s going to offer 24-hour support to our young people who are most in need,” she said.
“The hub will provide safe and secure temporary accommodation with a 24/7 on site caretaker who will coordinate services and supports for individuals to help them retain their self-worth and transition to independence.
“It will also link young people to additional services they may require such as mental health outreach services, drug and alcohol programs or financial and life skills counselling.
“I’m truly excited about this project which if approved for development is expected to kick off early next year.”
The Australian Government is providing a $6.5 million investment to deliver the youth hub/family community centre and the NSW Government – $500,000 and the land at 85 Belgrave Street, Kempsey.
ENDS
Media Contacts:
Mr McCormack – Dean Shachar 0418 202 860 | Jock Rice-Ward 0417 837 565
Mr Conaghan – Liz Spry 0418 928 744
Ms Pavey – Dave Coren 0427 626 623
