Young people invited to name new youth centre in Pakenham

The new centre will offer programs and services for young people aged 12 to 24, with dedicated training rooms, counselling rooms, a program/group room, a shower and laundry facility, recording booth, computers with internet access and a roof top recreation space. 

The youth centre will be located on a Council-owned parcel of land on James Street in Pakenham, and is anticipated to open April 2022. 

The centre will offer services and programs to support young people to build resilience, re-engage in education, training and work opportunities, improve relationships, and will give them the ability to access specialist services in a timely manner. 

Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Councillor Brett Owen said this was an exciting opportunity for our young people to be part of this big project by suggesting potential names for the youth centre. 

“Our current youth centre, My Place, is critically close to reaching its capacity,” Cr Owen said. 

“The move to construct this new, purpose-built youth centre is what our community has been asking for as it will support the future needs of our young people.” 

Henty Ward Councillor Carol Ryan said the location was ideal for our young people as it was close to public transport and local skate parks and shopping areas.  

“It’s important we plan for the future and in particular for the future of our young people,” Cr Ryan said.  

Cardinia Shire council has committed $1.5 million to this project. 

The Victorian Government has committed $3 million from the Growing Suburbs Fund and the Australian Government has put forward $1.5 million as part of the Community Health and Hospitals Program.  

To have your say on the facility name, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/newyouthcentre 

Feedback closes on Sunday 18 April 2021. 

Ten young people who put forward a suggested name for the new centre will receive a gift card for taking part.  

The young people who receive a gift card will be randomly selected if contact details are provided. 

Name suggestions for the new youth facility will be shared with Council for consideration.