The CLP Government is expanding its innovative Circuit Breaker Program to Katherine, following the success of the program's trial in Alice Springs and Greater Darwin.
In its first month of operation, the Circuit Breaker Program in Alice Springs and Darwin already has 40 active cases currently receiving intensive, wraparound support and case management, and 27 Family Responsibility Agreements are in place.
Additionally, six young people in Darwin were referred to a Safe Place, highlighting the program's capacity to provide immediate safety and meaningful early intervention for at-risk youth.
Minister for Children and Families, Robyn Cahill, said Circuit Breaker supported young people at risk and held parents accountable for their child's behaviour.
"Circuit Breaker is about stepping in early, equipping families with the tools they need to make positive changes and holding everyone accountable," said Ms Cahill.
"This is a long-term solution to break the cycle of harmful behaviour and build a brighter future for our young people.
"It addresses the root causes of offending behaviour, encourages parental accountability, and breaks the cycle of harmful behaviours."
The Katherine program will see staff from the Department of Children and Families (DCF) working during peak times to engage with at-risk young people and their families.
A smaller, targeted team - comprising a daytime and nighttime crew of up to four staff members each - will deliver tailored support and interventions to address the root causes of harmful behaviour and improve community safety.
Key features of the Katherine Circuit Breaker Program include:
Family Responsibility Agreements: Encouraging greater parental supervision and accountability, these agreements ensure families are directly involved in addressing their child's behaviour.Tailored Case Management: Individual assessments will identify the specific needs of young people and their families, leading to tailored plans that may include referrals to alcohol and drug programs, counselling, family violence services and engagement in pro-social activities.Safe Accommodation: Young people found out late at night engaging in anti-social behaviour who do not have a safe home environment to be returned to will be provided with safe accommodation while further assessments are made.
The program in Katherine will focus on delivering a highly targeted approach, ensuring resources are directed to where they're needed most and addressing community concerns.
Families and young people will work with DCF and other relevant agencies, such as police, health services and education, to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing harmful behaviours.
"Through Circuit Breaker, we are empowering families to take charge and helping young people turn their lives around," said Ms Cahill.
The expansion of Circuit Breaker to Katherine demonstrates the Finocchiaro CLP Government's commitment to reducing crime through early intervention and family-focused strategies.
