Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson is continuing his push for more support to help get on top of crime in the community. 

After lobbying for greater investment in youth diversion in Tamworth, Mr Anderson said the Department of Communities and Justice recommended the establishment of a voluntary diversion pilot in Tamworth.

“People have a right to feel safe in their homes, and for too many, that right has been taken away from them by disturbing incidences of serious crime,” Mr Anderson said.

 “It’s shocking that some of these crimes are being committed by young people who have taken a wrong path and are committing serious and violent crimes.

 “That’s why I’ve been pushing for greater investment in youth diversion programs, so that those wraparound services can intervene when a young person is getting off track and push them in the right direction.

 The government has announced $8.4 million to be rolled by early 2027. The pathway will provide wraparound support to children between the ages of 8 and 13 with complex needs who are engaged in, or at risk of engaging in, concerning or high-risk behaviour.

 “The NSW Nationals also have a plan to implement adult crime, adult time for young offenders committing some of the most serious crimes such as aggravated robbery, armed robbery, aggravated carjacking, and reckless grievous bodily harm,” Mr Anderson added.

 “We need a stronger approach to get on top of crime, and the NSW Nationals have a plan to help keep our communities safe.”