The Andrews Labor Government must heed calls to reinstate funding for Latrobe Youth Space, according to The Nationals Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron.
In June, Mr Cameron called on the Treasurer to reverse the decision to scrap funding for the Youth Space under the 2023-24 Budget, citing concerns about the impact its closure would have on young people in the Latrobe Valley.
But in responding to Mr Cameron this week, the Minister for Youth disregarded the crucial role Youth Space plays in supporting young people from across Gippsland.
“The Minister has completely rubbished the value of Latrobe Youth Space in her response,” Mr Cameron said.
“The Minister clearly has no understanding of, or appreciation for, the amazing work Youth Space does by suggesting young people can instead seek support from other organisations,” Mr Cameron said.
“There are more than 500 young people who rely on Latrobe Youth Space for social connection, help with finding employment, referrals to health services and learning life skills,” Mr Cameron said.
“But even more importantly, a huge number of young people in the Valley people rely on the Youth Space for basic needs like a hot shower and food because it’s the only place they feel safe.
“People of all ages, including members of the Youth Space, have contacted my office en masse to express their devastation and concern, and rightly so.
“Latrobe Youth Space is a community asset we cannot afford to lose, and it is reprehensible that the Minister is again ignoring the needs of young regional Victorians.”
