Council’s youth engagement services receive State Government funding

Published on 22 December 2021

Colac Otway Shire Council was successful with two funding applications to the Victoria Government for the delivery of its youth engagement services - $53,250 for the FReeZA program and $150,000 through the Engage! program over the next three years (2022-2024).

“The funding boost for our youth services is very welcome given the ongoing pandemic challenges young people in our community are facing,” said Ian Seuren, GM Development and Community Services.

The FReeZA funding will go towards Council’s Connexions initiative, which aims to enable young people’s participation in community life through leading the planning, development and delivery of music, cultural and recreational events.

The program is modelled on a youth participation approach where young people join a local FReeZA committee, which will link with the Colac Otway Shire Youth Leadership (COLOSYL) Committee, and lead the planning and staging of music, cultural and recreational events in the community.

All FReeZA events are drug, alcohol and smoke-free and designed by young people. Events provide important performance opportunities for local young and emerging artists.

“These events not only provide connections for young people, but they also provide industry experience and pathways into employment,” said Mr Seuren.

The Engage! stream of funding will provide young people the chance to bounce back, engage in education and employment opportunities and have a voice in their community, while celebrating and recognising young people.

Engage! events are co‑designed with young people to deliver a broad range of activities including mentoring, building life skills and showcasing their creativity and talents.

Program aims include supporting and empowering young people to be leaders in their community, improving engagement and participation, particularly by young people from under-represented parts of the community, while building connections, self-esteem and confidence.

“This funding boost will enable Council to considerably expand its youth engagement offering and support a cohort in our community that has been heavily affected by the isolation brought about by COVID,” said Mr Seuren.

To find out more about Engage or FReeZA, visit youthcentral.vic.gov.au.