Press Release - Youth Issues of Carnarvon

Press Release Youth Issues of Carnarvon

The unruly and often criminal behaviour of a small number of our youth is causing significant concern for the Carnarvon community.  The community is rightly demanding answers and solutions.

The Shire President, Cr Eddie Smith was elected in 2019 and during this time has passionately advocated for solutions to many issues in the community, one of which is the ongoing youth issues.

“I want to reassure Carnarvon residents that Council has been working diligently on addressing this issue.   This issue is complex and not a quick fix.  It will take time and will involve many discussions with not only key organisations but also the community with the aim of achieving a united and strong front to tackle the youth issues that we currently face“ he said.

With the support of Council, President Smith successfully lobbied the Department of Education for the use of the old Central Primary School Pre-School building to be used for a Shire of Carnarvon Youth Hub.  This has proven to be a very popular venue for the youth and provides a safe place for them to participate in activities.”

“The Youth Hub has made a positive impact on our community and the reduction in antisocial behavior has been very evident and we appreciate the efforts of the Shire to provide this safe space for the youth of Carnarvon” said Sgt Mitch Howard from Carnarvon Police Department

President Smith has also played a key role in addressing Carnarvon’s youth issues by - 

Setting up a District Leadership Group Carnarvon Sub-Committee to share information and encourage collaboration; Advocating for additional police resources which has resulted in six extra police officers being based in Carnarvon; Meeting with a number of Ministers to raise concerns regarding youth crime and anti-social behaviour and to reinstate Carnarvon as a regional hub for service delivery from government agencies.  This has resulted in some senior staff being relocated to Carnarvon from Geraldton which is an enormous step in the right direction.  Developing a draft strategy for a strong program of intensive intervention for families in crisis and working with stakeholders, community leaders and the State Government to refine the strategy. 

As the Shire continues to work towards a productive and positive community, let us remember to be kind.  We are in this together and united, we can all make Carnarvon a better community.

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES:

Please contact Alice Warwick, Communications Coordinator at the Shire of Carnarvon on (08) 9941 0000 or via email at [email protected].

Press Release - Youth Issues of Carnarvon 16.02.22(PDF, 2MB)