Minister for Early Childhood and Youth, Peter Garrett and Senator for Queensland, Jan McLucas today announced $2 million towards the construction of a new Youth Hub at Riverway in Townsville. 

Mr Garrett said the Youth Hub was an election commitment made by the Australian Government to improve services for young people in Townsville.

“The Youth Hub will be a great addition to the Townsville community and will act as a safe and central meeting point for young people in the region,” Mr Garrett said.

“I am pleased the Government will be working with the Townsville Mackay Medicare Local to deliver this important election commitment, which will bring together a range of youth service providers, including health, education, employment and social services.”

Senator McLucas said the Youth Hub would be a great resource for the people of Townsville.

“There is a growing need for facilities such as the Youth Hub, where young people can meet, hang out, take part in a range of activities as well as access a suite of support services,” Senator McLucas said.

Senator McLucas said around two thirds of all people with mental health problems experience their first symptoms before the age of 21, highlighting the need for accessible and appropriate mental health services targeted at young people.

“This youth hub will play an instrumental role in supporting young people in the region that are living with or are at risk of developing a mental health problem. It will provide a permanent local base for Headspace, Australia's National Youth Mental Health Foundation.”

Funds for the Youth Hub will be committed under the Community Infrastructure Grants program.