Young people in the Tamworth electorate could be left behind as the NSW Government looks to cut Regional Youth Community Coordinator roles in the electorate.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson MP said the Regional Youth Community Coordinator program funds important work with young people and communities across regional NSW.

“Youth coordinators play a critical role in our community, working with council, government organisations, and not-for-profits to keep young people active, engaged and away from trouble,” Mr Anderson said.

“That’s why it’s shocking to learn, in the middle of NSW Youth Week, that the program may be on the chopping block at the end of the financial year in June.

“If this program ends, these youth workers will either lose their jobs, or be shifted into roles outside of their core responsibility of youth.

“It is negligent of the Labor government to pull these roles out of regional NSW at a time when our communities are demanding more diversionary programs and more activities to keep our young people engaged.

“Everyone from police, to education, Department of Communities and Justice, and the community have stated that we need workers specifically focused on supporting young people and keeping them on the right track.

“That is the role of the Youth Community Coordinators. It doesn’t make sense for the roles to be cut, while at the same time the government is committing to greater spending in the area.

“I’ve already contacted the Minister for Youth requesting that they stand up for our youth and reverse these cuts.”