Broome youth the focus of new strategy

Work has begun on developing a new strategy for meeting the needs of Broome’s young people.

The Broome Youth Engagement Framework will guide the Shire of Broome’s future involvement in youth services, and the participation of young people will be a key component in its development.

The Youth Engagement Framework will be supported by a Youth Action Plan to be developed in conjunction with a Youth Advisory Council to be established in early 2016.

Broome Shire President, Ron Johnston, said the Shire was involved in developing a Kimberley Youth Strategy with the other Shires in the region, and the next step in that process was to develop a strategy specific to Broome.

“Youth issues are a key concern in our community,” Cr Johnston said.

“The Shire wants to engage with young people in Broome and in the youth sector, identify what the priorities are for young people in Broome, and provide a clear strategic direction to make sure Shire resources are put in the right place.

“Importantly, we want young people to have input and to be actively involved, and forming a Youth Advisory Council is a key part of this.

“Some of the other outcomes will include a Youth Services Directory that brings together everyone working in this area in Broome.

“There are a lot of organisations and individuals doing fantastic work with young people, and this will enhance the co-ordination and co-operation amongst these agencies and the Shire.”

The Shire of Broome employs a full-time Youth and Community Development Officer, thanks to a funding agreement with Rio Tinto, who will carry out much of this work.

The Shire has also secured funding from the WA Department of Local Government and Communities to facilitate work on the new Youth Engagement Framework.

For more information visit Shire of Broome