Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliottt joined Western Region Acting Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna to launch Project Walwaay in Dubbo today.
Project Walwaay was developed to ensure Aboriginal youth, identified as being at risk of entering the criminal justice system, get the full support they need to stay on the right side of the law.
The program was given an Aboriginal name Walwaay (meaning young man) by Wiradjuri Elders.
Project Walwaay is a referral pathway to the Indigenous Recruitment Our Way Delivery Program (IPROWD) and includes:
– dedicated Friday fun nights at Dubbo PCYC – which recently received a grant of $12,000 to purchase televisions, play stations, sporting equipment and food for fun night activities
– designated sporting programs on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and Wednesday afternoons
– identification of Aboriginal Elders and respected community members to support kids in the program as mentors
– review and support for Aboriginal youth charged for offences to ensure appropriate bail, support services and specific programs post charging to give them the best chance to stay out of the criminal justice system.
“This initiative is designed to give young community members a supportive environment to take charge and redirect their lives to a more positive pathway,” Mr Elliott said.
“It is a sad fact that some kids face bigger challenges from an early age and are in danger of heading down the wrong path. Project Walwaay will provide extensive support which may be potentially life-changing for those that embrace it.
“By staying on the right side of the law, these kids can take their lives in a positive direction, whether it be to secure a job, further education, mentoring or work experience,” Mr Elliott said.
Project Walwaay is supported by NSW Police Force, PCYC, Aboriginal Lands Council, Aboriginal Legal Services, Aboriginal Elders and community members and other government and non-government agencies.
Western Region A/AC Peter McKenna worked closely with his officers to establish a dedicated team to lead the initiative.
“The success of the program lies largely with the extensive networks of support that have embraced Project Walwaay,” he said.
“There is a die-hard determination to see a better future for our children. With the support of family, community, police and other government and non-government agencies we can build the kids’ confidence and self-esteem to help them discover their real potential.
“The road can seem pretty hard sometimes, but we want these children to know we will not give up. We are with them and we are determined to do everything we can to help them stay out of the criminal justice system.
“I want to thank and acknowledge families, community members, government and non-government agencies and all of the people who have stepped up to the plate to act as mentors, investing time and effort and care to save these kids from a life of crime.”
The project will be reviewed after six months.
