Queensland co-responder teams made up of Queensland Police Service officers and Youth Justice workers have been patrolling the streets of Mackay, engaging with young people.
Minister for Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs, Leanne Linard said the aim was to reduce youth crime and improve community safety.
“The co-responder initiative was expanded to Mackay in mid-March, after being introduced in five other locations around the State last year,” Ms Linard said.
“Co-responder teams have had some great successes in Cairns, Townsville, Moreton, Rockhampton and Logan, and I’m pleased to see the program is now kicking goals in Mackay too.”
Ms Linard said the teams worked hard to stop crime before it occurred, while reducing anti-social behaviour in public places and diverting young people to support services.
“In Mackay, the co-responders are focusing on the peak period of Wednesday to Saturday, patrolling the central business district and other parts of the city,” she said.
Minister for Police, Mark Ryan said the co-responder teams were about using all of the resources at the Government’s disposal to make a real difference to community safety and also to make a difference in the lives of troubled youths.
“The co-responder teams monitor and approach vulnerable young people in public places who may need help on a whole range of issues, including homelessness, domestic violence and substance misuse,” Mr Ryan said.
“The next step they take is to connect young people and their families to vital support services and, importantly, they’re checking up on young offenders to ensure they’re complying with their bail conditions.”
