Young Pacific Islanders in Casey and Dandenong will receive a leg up through a new pilot program.
The State Government announced $600,000 for the Young Pasifika Program on Friday 20 January.
Multicultural Affairs Minister Robin Scott said it was an unfortunate truth that youths in certain communities were at greater risk of dropping out of school or work, engaging in risky behaviour and suffering racism and discrimination.
“That’s why it’s so important for us to offer targeted support to ensure every Victorian – regardless of where they come from – gets a fair go,” he said.
Experienced youth outreach workers will work directly with the youths and re-connect them to school, jobs and training.
The workers will help to engage young people through existing community networks and relationships such as sport, churches and local government programs.
Youth Affairs Minister Jenny Mikakos said the program would improve the social, community and economic opportunities for young Pacific Islanders.
The program will initially be delivered in Casey and Wyndham, then extended into Dandenong and Brimbank.
The program will also fund a project co-ordinator to work closely with local organisations and networks to help improve links between support services and deliver a co-ordinated response.
