Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg has welcomed the NSW Government’s recent announcement of $15.6 million to expand PCYC youth engagement ($15.6 million partnership with PCYC to build stronger futures for regional youth) and crime-prevention programs across regional NSW, including Lismore.

He also acknowledged this week’s new legislative reforms announced by NSW Premier Chris Minns as a step forward in strengthening community safety and improving responses to youth crime (NSW Govt introduces new legislation to interrupt youth offending earlier and keep communities safe).

“These announcements are a positive step for our community. Youth crime has been a challenge in Lismore for a long time, and it’s encouraging to see the State Government investing in the programs, partnerships and reform that help build safer communities,” Mayor Krieg said.

“I want to thank Premier Chris Minns and the NSW Government for the work they’re doing. These reforms, together with the PCYC investment, show a clear commitment to supporting regional communities like ours.”

Mayor Krieg said the PCYC has a strong track record in early intervention, mentoring and youth development.

“Programs like these make a meaningful difference in regional areas, and we are pleased to see this investment reaching Lismore,” he said.

He noted that State and Federal governments fund a wide range of programs that support youth wellbeing, including First Nations mental-health, family support and early-intervention services.

“The well-being of our young people matters to all of us. We will continue to work collaboratively with NSW Police, PCYC, local service providers and our local community to ensure families and young people know where to find support, we all have a role to play.”

Mayor Krieg said Council’s role is one of partnership and advocacy, not duplication.

“It’s important our community understands that services such as policing, youth justice, family support and case management are funded and delivered by State and Federal agencies,” he said.

“Council’s job is to advocate when our community needs more, whether that’s more programs, more boots on the ground, or more support for service providers and families.

“And just as importantly, our role is to help promote what these partners are already delivering. This is their space, and we want to support them to do their work, not duplicate it.”

He also encouraged community involvement.

“Our community can help by reporting issues, participating in consultations, and supporting the youth programs and services that are here to help,” Mayor Krieg said.

“As an example, the Richmond District Police will host their Police Aboriginal Consultative Committee (PACC) meeting at GSAC next Tuesday. This is a fantastic initiative, and a demonstration of the good work already underway by our key agencies.”