$20,000 grant to support Bunbury's Hyperspace Youth Diversion project

Youth Minister Robyn McSweeney today provided a one-off $20,000 State Government grant to engage Bunbury youth - ranging in age from 10 to 17 - at risk of antisocial behaviour.

The funding will support the Bunbury Police and Community Youth Centre (PCYC) Hyperspace Youth Diversion Project, which was developed in response to community concerns about increased levels of antisocial youth activity at local shopping centres and other public areas during Thursday late night trading. 

"This service is vital as it targets youth at risk of offending, or becoming involved in other criminal activities that can lead to a lifetime of ongoing problems and regrets for these young people," Mrs McSweeney said.

"Where you have recreational and educational activities and programs housed in a safe, supportive environment young people are more likely to act and engage in a positive way.

"Another positive of Hyperspace is it aims to encourage young people to have positive interactions with Police, create pathways to other services including mental health, counselling and employment, and to provide education on health and personal safety issues."

The Minister said the Hyperspace Youth Diversion Project complemented the existing PCYC Bunbury Police Rangers which has received $257,229 to date in State Government funding to operate their programs since 1998.  

Bunbury PCYC anticipates the Hyperspace Youth Diversion Project has engaged between 100-120 young people, with 25-35 regular attendees since the project started. 

The Bunbury PCYC is part of the Federation of WA Police and Citizen Youth Centres which operate in partnership with the Western Australia Police.