The Nationals Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron, has urged the Andrews Government to reinstate funding for Latrobe Youth Space after it was scrapped under the 2023-24 Budget.
Speaking in Parliament yesterday, Mr Cameron raised concerns about the impact closure of the Youth Space would have on young people in the Valley.
“Latrobe Youth Space was opened in May 2021, and has developed a reputation as a place that provides wrap-around support for young people in the Valley between the ages of 12 and 25,” Mr Cameron said.
“In just two years the Youth Space has attracted more than 500 members, and this tells us two things – one: there is a great need in the Valley for youth support services, and two: Latrobe Youth Space is a trusted safe place.
“Instead of celebrating their second birthday last month, young people were devastated to learn that Latrobe Youth Space will no longer be funded by the State Government.
“Many constituents are rightly concerned about what this means for the Youth Space and its 500-plus members.
“The importance of the Youth Space cannot be understated. For some young people, it’s somewhere they can hang out. For others, it’s the only place they feel safe, and the place where they can shower and eat.”
Mr Cameron called on the Treasurer to reinstate funding for Latrobe Youth Space to ensure it can continue to support its 500-plus members.
The Treasurer is required to respond within 30 days.
