SIMON Corbell says a new program that aims to reduce recidivism among young offenders and engage youths who are considered at-risk of committing crimes was launched today.

“The Intensive Diversion Program, delivered by the Canberra Police Community Youth Club (PCYC) and funded by ACT Policing, will target young people who are recidivist offenders in property crime and who are engaged with the Child and Youth Protection Service,” Simon said.

Mr Corbell said the program would provide better outcomes for vulnerable young people in the ACT and improve community security.

“Diverting a young person from crime is not as simple as preventing opportunities for offending to occur,” Mr Corbell said.

“Crime diversion requires consideration of the range of factors affecting each young offender. These might include their involvement with police and the justice system, their family and social supports, education and general life skills.

“Success in crime diversion requires input from the community and government services, police, schools and families to connect in a joined-up response to support a young person to stop their cycle of offending.

“The program, which will be run full-time Monday to Friday and have the capacity for 6 people aged 14-18 any one time, will be a valuable tool in reducing the negative effects of property crime in the ACT.

“Property crime is particularly disruptive and upsetting to the community and remains a priority area of focus for the government.

“I would like to acknowledge and congratulate Canberra PCYC for developing the program and ACT Policing for facilitating this program through the funding they provide to Canberra PCYC.”

The Intensive Diversion Program is one of four programs run under a $515,000 funding agreement with ACT Policing. Services under the program begin later this month.