The Australian Government is providing $440,000 for a new education hub and retreat for young people on the New South Wales (NSW) Central Coast.
Coast Shelter will establish two new 12-month programs focussed on fostering employment readiness, life skills, and wellbeing for young people in the local area.
Coast Shelter is committed to supporting young people on the NSW Central Coast by providing safe, purpose-built spaces that promote wellbeing, education, and personal development.
Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, said the grant would fund a locally designed and developed solution to best meet the needs of local youth.
“By providing this funding to Coast Shelter, the Australian Government is investing in the futures of the young people of the NSW Central Coast, with an estimated 100 people set to access the Education Hub and Youth Retreat each week, and more than 5,200 people a year,” Minister Rishworth said.
“Coast Shelter has proven their ability to support young people in the area. This new hub will help young people develop their skills and employment readiness, improving their future outcomes.
“Investing in our young people is incredibly important, and the Government is proud to work with Coast Shelter to help it deliver a locally developed, designed, and delivered solution for young people on the NSW Central Coast.”
The NSW Central Coast faces significant challenges in supporting young people, including limited access to education and employment, homelessness, domestic violence, and mental health concerns.
The Education Hub, located in Wyong, will offer a learning space focussed on skills development and employment readiness. Designed to foster resilience and independence, young people can access:
- mentoring and coaching to build confidence and career pathways
- training programs tailored to job skills
- workshops on life skills
- financial literacy and employability
- social enterprise opportunities that provide hands-on experience.
The Youth Retreat, located in Gosford, is a youth-centred space, providing a safe, supportive environment for young people in need. The retreat offers:
- mental health and wellbeing programs
- creative engagement activities (art, music, storytelling)
- practical life skills workshops
- opportunities for social connection and leadership development.
Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP said Coast Shelter is a phenomenal organisation assisting vulnerable people on the Central Coast.
“I welcome the announcement by the Federal Labor Government that it will provide funding to Coast Shelter to support the roll out of new programs for vulnerable young people on the Central Coast.
“Coast Shelter has a proven track record of delivering outstanding youth services across our region.
“I look forward to these exciting programs commencing and assisting our community,” Dr Reid said.
Lee Shearer, Chief Executive Officer of Coast Shelter, said this crucial funding will allow Coast Shelter to expand their services to support those who need it most.
"After more than three decades of serving this community, we know firsthand the challenges our young people face. We must support their futures and provide safe, purpose-built spaces that promote wellbeing, education, and personal development,” Lee Shearer said.
“The program will enhance employment readiness and empower young people to thrive and reach their full potential. We're deeply thankful for this recognition of our work and the ongoing needs of our community."
The funding is delivered under the Strong and Resilient Communities – Inclusive Communities (SARC – IC) Activity, which is designed to support people on pathways to self-reliance and empowerment through local community-driven solutions. The Government has invested $49.5 million in SARC – IC projects since 2022.
More information about SARC grants is available on the Department of Social Services website.
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