A report on the impact of youth programs in remote central Australia found that, with enough effort, they provided significant support to children, their families and communities, as well as the broader health, education and justice systems.
They also actively reduced rates of crime and drug and alcohol abuse among young people.
The report, released on May 16, examined three youth programs in Utopia, Hermannsburg, and Yuendumu.
Each resulted in improved health outcomes and self-esteem, greater engagement with education and training, and increased school attendance and literacy.
But it said a successful youth program was “reliant on stable and skilled youth workers, regular and consistent activities and community involvement in the design and delivery of the program”.
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