ANTI-POVERTY SERVICES AND SPECIAL PROGRAMS FOR YOUTH

In reply to Ms CHAPMAN (Bragg—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (30 June 2008).

The Hon. J.M. RANKINE (Wright—Minister for Families and Communities, Minister for Northern Suburbs, Minister for Housing, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability): The 2008-09 budget has provided $15 million over four years to support families when they first come to the attention of Families SA, intervening early so that children can continue to safely live with their birth family. It is anticipated that some families who are currently recipients of Families SA anti-poverty services will be effectively supported through these early intervention services, and as a consequence reduce demand for emergency financial assistance.

In relation to funding for youth services, there is in fact an increase in the whole-of-government funding under the 'To Break the Cycle' initiative. A number of initiatives have been funded directly as a result of Monsignor Cappo's recommendations to address serious repeat offending. $11.5 million has been committed over four years.

Community Protection Panel (CPP)—$5.6 million

Intensive case management and concentrated support services will be provided to serious repeat offenders. A panel of experienced members of the community and government will oversee this, and will recommend their return to custody if they do not fully take part in tailored programs. Additional youth justice case managers are being recruited to supervise these serious young offenders.

Youth Justice Teams—$4 million

Young offenders who are not being supervised under the CPP will be closely supervised and receive tailored support programs from departments including the Department for Families and Communities, the Department of Health, the Department of Education and Children's Services and SA Police.

Tirkandi School Retention Program—$1 million

This pilot program has been effective in keeping young at risk Aboriginal students at school and ongoing funding has been allocated. Evidence shows that poor educational achievement can be linked to offending behaviour.

The David Kennedy Model—$829,000

Professor David Kennedy, from the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, has been working with government and the Aboriginal community to devise a program tailored to address South Australian youth offending problems.

Kurruru Indigenous Youth Performing Arts—$143,000 (additional funding)

Twenty adult artists and mentors are working with 100 young men and boys to provide a diversion from anti-social and criminal behaviour.