The Queensland Government has announced Indigenous-led registered charity, Silver Lining Foundation, will expand its existing academy to deliver a Crime Prevention School in Townsville.
The school will provide tailored education to at-risk young people in grades 7-12 who are disengaged from mainstream schooling to help prevent them from falling into a life of crime.
Students will receive education, mentoring and hands-on learning opportunities across a range of industries including automotive training, engineering, construction and rural operations.
Silver Lining Foundation was selected to deliver the school following an extensive procurement process and is expected to begin enrolling students later this year ahead of the 2027 school year, subject to national accreditation approvals, said Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support, Laura Gerber.
The Minister said the Townsville school would help turn young lives around and prevent the next generation of youth offenders.
“Townsville has been on the frontline of Labor’s Youth Crime Crisis, which is why the Crisafulli Government is delivering targeted early intervention to stop crime before it starts,” Ms Gerber said.
“If we can keep young people engaged in school, learning practical skills to help steer them towards a brighter path, we will prevent the next generation from becoming serious repeat offenders.
“Silver Lining Foundation has a proven track record of supporting at-risk youth and this funding will allow them to expand their reach and help more young people turn their lives away from crime.”
Silver Lining Foundation Australia Chairman, Nigel Daisy said the organisation was proud to partner with the Government to expand the Yallorin Yimba Silver Lining School.
“This is a massive win for Townsville families. We know mainstream schooling doesn’t fit every young person, and this funding allows us to expand a model that actually works for our young people,” Mr Daisy said.
“Keeping youth connected to education, culture, and their community is the most powerful crime prevention tool we have.”
The Government has invested $50 million over five years to deliver four new or expanded Crime Prevention Schools.
