5.6 YOUTH SUPPORT
RDA committees in 30 regions reported a lack of youth services, employment or educational opportunities and this was considered to contribute to the migration of youth from the region. High youth unemployment was commonly attributed to a lack of entry level, school leaver or graduate positions and limited work experience opportunities. Many RDA committees also identified that a lack of skill development, training, job search support and assistance with the transition from school to work also excluded young people from the workforce.
A lack of youth centres, recreation facilities and social activities was also reported. This was commonly associated with high rates of youth involvement in incidents of property damage, assault and road trauma as well as issues of substance abuse, depression and suicide. Other youth issues included a high number of children in out of home care, a high level of child vulnerability in terms of health, cognitive and communication skills, long waiting lists for child and adolescent mental health services and a lack of early intervention and family planning services.
Print Page
Print All