State continues funding The Web

Member for Peats Ms Marie Andrews has announced that the NSW Government will continue to fund The Web Youth Service in Woy Woy.

The NSW Government provides annual funding of $89,987 under the Community Services Grants Program and over the past two years has provided an additional $107,000, which has allowed the service to expand and extend its hours.

The Web Youth Service, which operates under the umbrella of the Peninsula Community Centre, contacted the Member for Peats to ensure the funding continued.

Ms Andrews said she had lobbied for funding across NSW Government Departments and had secured the additional $78,500 funding required for an additional two years.

The Department of Juvenile Justice will provide $40,000 and the Department of Community Services the remaining $38,500.

Minister for Juvenile Justice Ms Diane Beamer said the funds would ensure young people at risk would continue to be engaged in productive activities.

"Youth services like The Web are important to ensure young people have a sense of place and responsibility in the community," said Ms Beamer.

Minister for Community Services Ms Reba Meagher said that even though the additional funding had been a one-off grant, she had been convinced by strong representations from the local community and Ms Andrews.

"Marie Andrews has been on the phone making me aware of this issue, forwarding letters from the local community and advising me of the project's worth," Ms Meagher said.

"I have asked my department to make this a priority and have secured an additional $38,500.

"The Central Coast is growing rapidly, with large numbers of young people, and we have to make sure we give them the opportunities and support they need.

"I want DoCS to look at what services are available on the Central Coast, the level of support they receive, and where our future priorities should be."

Ms Andrews thanked the Ministers for supporting the service and the Central Coast youth who utilised it.

"Thanks to the local young people who use the service and who have argued strongly for its retention, and I am delighted that we have been able to ensure the additional support is continued," Ms Andrews said.

Press release, June 28 Member for Peats, Ms Marie Andrews