A new program aimed at intervening with at-risk young people before they steal cars has begun in Townsville today, as part of a series of community-designed projects to tackle youth crime.
The Deterring Drivers program is led by the Australian Catholic University and will highlight the dangers of so-called ‘joy riding’.
The initiative has been designed and implemented by researchers with expertise in criminology, policing, psychology, road safety and health, said Minister for Youth Justice, Leanne Linard.
The program received a one-off grant of $74,000 under the first round of the Queensland Government’s Community Partnership Innovation Grants.
Young people will be referred to the six-week education program by youth service providers, including Youth Justice workers and other local stakeholders.
“Community safety is the Palaszczuk Government’s top priority, which is why we are investing heavily in a wide range of intervention programs for young people,” said Minister Linard.
“The Deterring Drivers program is one example of how we are backing community-based solutions to local issues.
“This program will highlight the dangers of joy riding and make young people more aware of the potential consequences.
The State Government recently announced more than $100 million in additional funding to be invested in diversion and rehabilitation programs that have been proven to make a difference in breaking the destructive cycle of youth crime.
“The Community Partnership Innovation Grants scheme was developed in response to local communities wanting to be part of the solution,” the Minister said.
“The Premier recently announced an additional $100 million in funding for a range of initiatives that not only hold offender to account but also give them the opportunity to change their lives.
“This includes expanding intensive case management, youth co-responder teams and our Stronger Communities initiatives. We will also make further investments in On Country programs and grassroots early intervention.”
Member for Townsville, Scott Stewart said there was a strong desire among Townsville residents for young people to be held accountable for their actions.
“But we also know we need to intervene with young people at risk of entering the criminal justice system,” he said.
“The Deterring Drivers program is one example of how we are always open to new ideas to improve community safety.”
Australian Catholic University, Deterring Drivers project coordinator, Dr Shannon Dodd said stakeholders in Townsville had been consulted to ensure the program meets the needs of both the community and young people.
“We have worked hard to ensure our knowledge of young people’s behaviours and motivations as they relate to so-called joyriding translates to action on the ground.”
