Three NSW inquiries back youth hubs to cut youth crime and loneliness
Three NSW parliamentary inquiries recommend youth hubs and community sports programs to address crime, loneliness, and extremism.
NSW is exploring youth hubs and outdoor sports programs to reach young people and divert them from crime and isolation. Three recent parliamentary inquiries have all recommended more funding for these spaces.
Youth hubs pair trained youth workers with community activities like street football and basketball. Street Industries runs temporary youth venues in Sydney's west and south.
Young people build connections with mentors and peers. On the Central Coast, Regional Youth Support Services operates drop-in sites and a kiosk offering resume help and life skills.
Its flagship hub closed in 2024 when funding ran out. Minister Rose Jackson said the NSW government spent more than $9 million on youth programs this year.
It is exploring ways to expand third spaces. Youth Action is mapping youth service gaps across NSW.
Findings are due by year's end.
Why it mattersEarly investment in youth hubs costs less than dealing with crime and mental health crises later. These spaces help young people feel they belong.
AustraliaYoung Australians in NSW will get more accessible community spaces for sport and mentoring if the government acts on parliamentary inquiries, addressing post-COVID isolation and school disengagement.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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