Youth boost

By Melissa Grant
THE lives of young people in Cardinia are set to improve with plans to increase the number of youth services and programs in the shire.
The Cardinia Shire Council’s new Youth Policy, adopted at last week’s council meeting, will provide the foundations and framework to cater for the growing number of young people in the area.
Cardinia’s youth population is expected to reach 25,110 in 2021, an increase of 63 per cent on last year’s figure.
An increased range of recreational facilities, a youth specific facility and a bus to reach youth in isolated townships are among the policy’s main objectives.
Central Ward councillor Brett Owen said a permanent youth facility in the shire was particularly important.
“Council hasn’t had a designated youth facility since YZone was replaced,” he said.
Cr Owen said the proposed facility would include art and internet areas as well as activity, counselling and band rehearsal rooms with opening hours relevant to young people.
He said the number of recreational facilities available for people not wanting to play sport was a concern and there was a growing need for a cinema in the area.
Central Ward councillor Bill Ronald agreed.
“The council has taken a strong stance on increasing sporting facilities and now we have them it’s great for sporting people but not that crash-hot for the others,” he said.
Cr Ronald said the reopening of the Pakenham Pool was one project already underway that would benefit young people.
Improving young people’s access to public transport is also on the agenda.
“Before they can get in a car and drive, someone, parents or friends have to drive them places or they have to rely on public transport,” Cr Ronald said.
“It (public transport) doesn’t have to get them everywhere as long as it can get them to the main areas.”
Cr Ronald said although council had always had youth policies in place, the latest was great news for young people with its focus on youth activities.
Cr Owen said the youth policy was an important step towards improving youth facilities and services in the shire.
“This council is doing things for young people but we can do better,” he said.
“The next couple of budgets must have considerable financial commitment to deliver this strategy.”
Cr Owen said outside funding was crucial and called for the Victorian Government to step up and help accommodate the growing number of young people in the area.