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Plea to restore funding for Latrobe Youth Space with its 500 members from Martin Cameron to Victorian treasurer

The Nationals Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron, has urged the Andrews government to restore funding for Latrobe Youth Space, emphasising its crucial role in providing support and a safe haven for over 500 young people in the Valley.

By news@gippsland - 21st June 2023 - Back to News

The Nationals Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron, has urged the Andrews government to reinstate funding for Latrobe Youth Space after it was scrapped under the 2023-24 Budget. Speaking in Parliament yesterday, Mr Cameron raised concerns about the impact closure of the Youth Space would have on young people in the Valley.

Latrobe Youth Space has gained over 500 members in just two years, indicating a significant need for youth support services in the Valley

Youth support hub thrives

Mr Cameron said, "Latrobe Youth Space was opened in May 2021, and has developed a reputation as a place that provides wrap-around support for young people in the Valley between the ages of 12 and 25. In just two years the Youth Space has attracted more than 500 members, and this tells us two things - one: there is a great need in the Valley for youth support services, and two: Latrobe Youth Space is a trusted safe place."

"Instead of celebrating their second birthday last month, young people were devastated to learn that Latrobe Youth Space will no longer be funded by the state government. Many constituents are rightly concerned about what this means for the Youth Space and its 500-plus members."

"The importance of the Youth Space cannot be understated. For some young people, it's somewhere they can hang out. For others, it's the only place they feel safe, and the place where they can shower and eat," he said. Mr Cameron called on the Treasurer to reinstate funding for Latrobe Youth Space to ensure it can continue to support its 500-plus members. The Treasurer is required to respond within 30 days.

Pictures from Google Maps.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Morwell’s free International Rose Garden Festival returns November 6–7, featuring entertainment, workshops, markets, children’s activities and spectacular Night Lights, celebrating the region’s iconic gardens with more than 4,000 roses.
• Morwell Historical Society opens exhibition celebrating Northway Family’s pioneering legacy and Hazelwood’s early history for community visitors
  Federal and state MPs opened Morwell Historical Society’s Pioneering Northway Family Exhibition, showcasing three generations of Hazelwood pioneers through photographs, documents and maps until November 29.
• Melina Bath announces $53.6M boost to patient travel assistance for regional Victorians under Nationals-Liberal government
  Melina Bath says a proposed $53.6 million boost to Victoria’s patient transport assistance would increase accommodation and travel reimbursements, easing healthcare costs for regional patients travelling long distances for specialist treatment.
• East Gippsland Shire Council seeks $4M to upgrade Lakes Entrance drainage, protect communities and unlock 1,500 new housing lots
  East Gippsland Council is seeking $4 million for Lakes Entrance drainage upgrades to reduce flood risk, protect communities and support development of 1,500 housing lots.
• Moe Town Hall seeks resident organisation to activate historic venue through regular community arts programs until 30 September 2026
  Latrobe City Council has opened expressions of interest for an organisation to establish an ongoing residency at Moe Town Hall, delivering regular arts, cultural and community activities while keeping the venue accessible.
• Live and Loud at GPAC brings AFL Grand Final action, family fun and entertainment to Traralgon on 26 September 2026
  Latrobe City Council will host Live and Loud at GPAC on September 26, featuring family activities, entertainment, a ticketed musical-acrobat performance and free live screening of the 2026 AFL Grand Final.
• South Gippsland offers more than 40 free and low-cost activities during Victorian Seniors Festival month this October
  South Gippsland will celebrate Victorian Seniors Festival month in October with more than 40 free and low-cost activities, including movement, sport, socialising, learning, arts, culture and creative events for seniors.
• East Gippsland Council seeks community feedback on general local law review before 2027 expiry, submit by 2 October 2026
  East Gippsland Shire Council is seeking community feedback on its General Local Law review, covering public spaces, safety, amenity and local activities, with consultation open until Friday, October 2.
• Gippsland Line set for longer trains and more seats under Nationals-Liberals plan to tackle peak-period overcrowding
  The Nationals and Liberals have pledged five additional VLocity sets, adding 1,110 seats on Gippsland services to reduce overcrowding and improve peak-period travel for passengers.
• Melina Bath says boating licence revenue should fund ramps, parking, dredging and safety, supporting Victorian boating and fishing communities
  Victoria’s Liberals and Nationals have pledged to protect the Better Boating Fund, which delivered $130 million in four years, supporting boating facilities, waterway safety, recreational fishing and regional jobs.