Tambellup young people in The Zone for community connection
The young people in Tambellup WA face some significant challenges, including family violence, substance abuse, low educational outcomes, and high unemployment. These factors can make it hard for young people to visualise a bright future for themselves. Thanks to a community partnership, a qualified Youth Worker is on the ground in Tambellup each week. With a safe space and professional support to help them navigate difficult times, some of the young people in Tambellup are feeling more hopeful.
Program focus: Stability and support
To address social issues in Tambellup, Youth Great Southern partnered with Albany Youth Support Association and the Shire of Broomehill-Tambellup to provide ongoing access to the town’s youth centre, The Zone.
Tambellup’s indigenous population is four times higher than the state average, and many young people in the community face significant social challenges. After a traumatic homicide in 2019, it was identified that professional support for youth was urgently needed. Albany Youth Support Association provided a Youth Worker service, but sustaining this service financially was challenging for the organisations involved.
This partnership provides funding to continue this vital service. Importantly, the Youth Worker familiar to the community maintained a regular presence at The Zone, offering both formal and informal engagement opportunities for young people and their families.
Project activities: Safe and professional guidance
Thanks to the program, The Zone remains open one afternoon per week, providing a safe and welcoming environment for young people in Tambellup. With the Youth Worker’s support, young people have a dedicated space to connect, learn, and build trust.
The Youth Worker collaborated with local organisations and external agencies to improve community and educational engagement, helping young people see beyond their immediate circumstances and explore future possibilities.
Impact: Connection and empowerment
The original project goals were not only met but exceeded. The Zone expanded to operate twice a week, attracting over 24 regular attendees and engaging more than 65% of the town’s youth during the funding period. This consistent presence provided much-needed stability and support.
Engaging with the Youth Worker helped young people build hope, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Through meaningful interactions, the program opened their eyes to new opportunities and encouraged them to envision a future beyond the challenges they currently face.
“Engagement of a Youth Worker helps build hope and resilience in young people where previously there was minimal. It opens their eyes to options available to them and the potential for more to life than their current experience. These benefits are immeasurable and last well into the future, alongside the increased capacity to trust adults and build healthy relationships. These protective behaviours for the young people will last a lifetime.”
Securing strong futures for Great Southern young people.
In partnership with organisations like Albany Youth Support Association and the Shire of Broomehill-Tambellup, Youth Great Southern is committed to creating pathways that secure strong futures for young people in the Great Southern region. We are always keen to collaborate with local organisations that share our values.
If you have a project in mind or would like to explore how we can work together, get in touch!