Shadow Attorney-General Lara Giddings has welcomed today’s funding announcement for Life Without Barriers but says the Liberal Government has created a void when it comes to supporting at-risk young people.
“Today’s announcement from the Liberal Government should be in addition to support for programs like U-Turn and TOOL, not instead of,” Ms Giddings said.
“While Life Without Barriers does a lot of excellent work in the community, we are yet to be convinced this new program will deliver the results required to assists at-risk young people.
“Previous programs provided intensive, one-on-one support through the teaching of practical skills like car restoration and carpentry, which could lead to employment.
“We believe the new program is far more about case management and linking an individual with other services.
“The program only supports young people between the age of 18 and 25.
“Labor is especially worried about the lack of support programs for at-risk youth under the age of 18.
“The tender criteria set by the Liberal Government made it very difficult for many Tasmanian organisations to bid for the funding available.
“The Liberals broke a very clear election promise to support the U-Turn program.
“They also stood by and watched the TOOL program shut its doors after fighting for it from opposition.
“The Attorney-General can’t wash her hands of the failures of the Liberal Government.”
Lara Giddings MP Shadow Attorney-General
