The State Government has unveiled plans to further fund two Toowoomba programs designed to divert at-risk children away from crime.
The programs, which provide education, mentoring, and community engagement, reportedly delivered 7.2 per cent drop in the number of victims of crime in 2025.
Momentum Mental Health will be receiving funding to support at-risk youths aged between 8 and 17 and their families in Toowoomba, with a 12-month mentoring program to re-engage youth with education, training and employment.
Reason to Thrive will support at-risk youth aged 10-17 in Toowoomba, Lockyer, and Brisbane’s west with a program that uses animal care, equine therapy, and outdoor learning to teach emotional and behavioural regulation.
The programs are funded under the Crisafulli Government’s Kickstarter early intervention grants.
Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support Laura Gerber said early intervention was vital to making Queensland safer and reducing the number of victims of crime.
“We are investing in early intervention because we know it’s a critical step to prevent youth from falling into a life of crime,” Ms Gerber said.
“Addressing the early signs of disengagement, anti-social or criminal behaviour is critical to breaking the cycle of crime and putting youth back on the right track.”
Treasurer and Member for Toowoomba South, David Janetzki, said the funding came after a decade of underinvestment from the former Labor Government.
“Investing in programs that intervene early means we can turn young lives around before they become entrenched in a life of crime,” Mr Janetzki said.
Member for Toowoomba North Trevor Watts said early intervention was a key part of the Government’s plan to break the cycle of crime and restore safety to Toowoomba.
Momentum Mental Health CEO Shirley-Anne Gardiner said she was excited and privileged to be part of the Kickstarter program.
“Building Momentum for Youth and Families is about intervening early and providing the right wraparound support for young people and the people who care about them,” Ms Gardiner said.
“By strengthening families, building skills and connection, and responding before challenges escalate, we can help young people stay engaged in positive pathways and reduce the risk of long-term harm.”
Reason to Thrive Business Development Manager Julie Tom said early and tailored intervention could change the direction of a young person’s life.
“When we intervene early and provide the right support, we don’t just change outcomes – we change life trajectories,” Ms Tom said.
“Our program gives young people the tools, trust, and belief they need to build safer, stronger futures for themselves and those around them.”