Pasifika young people and their families in the west will have access to more support following a funding boost from the Victorian Government.

Minister for Crime Prevention Natalie Hutchins announced $400,000 in funding for two programs aimed at providing early interventions and mentoring for Pasifika young people in Brimbank.

Under the investment, $200,000 will go towards the Pasifika Thrive program, which will be delivered in collaboration with local schools to provide early intervention mentoring for young people.

This program has been developed by Charis Mentoring, a Pasifika-led organisation with extensive cultural knowledge and strong relationships with young people in Brimbank.

The Village Response Plan program, led by Charis Mentoring and community partners, will also receive $200,000 to provide support for Pasifika young people who have had contact with the justice system, and to help reduce reoffending.

The initiatives will build on existing successful programs, including the Youth Umbrella Project in Brimbank, which aims to increase resilience and build on the strengths of young people from Pasifika and African backgrounds.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Crime Prevention Natalie Hutchins

“This funding is an important part of our ongoing work to reduce the over-representation of Pasifika young people in our justice system.”

“The Pasifika community in Brimbank is strong, resilient and vibrant. I congratulate community leaders on these fantastic grass-roots initiatives, which will ensure young people continue to be supported during the pandemic.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Youth Ros Spence

“Pasifika young people are deeply connected to their communities and this program provides a community-led and culturally focused approach to mentoring.”

Quote attributable to Member for St Albans Natalie Suleyman

“This funding will allow Charis Mentoring to continue to grow their vital community work, and ensure at-risk Pasifika young people across Brimbank are given the assistance and support they need”

Quote attributable to Member for Kororoit Marlene Kairouz

“We’re support community leadership, helping build safer and stronger communities for young Pasifika people in Brimbank.”