Minister ramps up pressure on funds

POLICE Minister Mark Ryan has heaped post- budget pressure on the Federal Government to cough up cash needed to retain youth workers for a successful crime prevention program.

The Palaszczuk Government last week announced funding of $ 7.365 million over five years for Project Booyah, an award- winning program which targets at- risk youths and guides them away from lives of crime.

The Townsville- based project was named the most successful in the state and by the end of 2017 had reduced criminal offending of participants by 95- 98 per cent.

The program requires about $ 700,000 in Federal Government funding to retain vital youth workers who help Project Booyah graduates move into jobs, study and adulthood. A federal grant currently funding the youth workers was due to expire on June 30.

The Townsville Bulletin understands funds have been found within the existing Queensland Police Service budget to retain Townsville’s youth worker for a few months, but the long- term future remained uncertain.

“I am very disappointed the Federal Government hasn’t recognised the worth of the award- winning Project Booyah by continuing its funding of the youth workers who contribute so much to its positive outcomes for at- risk youths,” Mr Ryan said.

“The Turnbull Government really needs to commit to helping fund a program that is proving its worth in diverting at- risk youths back into education, training and jobs.”

Townsville- based Senator Ian Macdonald said he was yet to see a business case to extend Project Booyah funding, but he would support a strong case for anything that benefited the northern community. He criticised the State Government for politicising the issue.