$97,000 funding for Yarrabah Justice Group

by | Sep 9, 2009 | Media Releases

Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt today announced continuing funding of the Yarrabah Justice Group.

Mr Pitt said the Gurriny Yealamucka Health Services Aboriginal Corporation, sponsoring Yarrabah Justice Group will receive $97,000 to continue vital work in the community.

“The Bligh Government is committed to providing a fair and accessible justice system for all Queenslanders, and in particular addressing the issues faced by indigenous Queenslanders,” Mr Pitt said.

“Community Justice Groups play an important role supporting a range of initiatives targeting the over-representation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system.

“Supporting Community Justice Groups is a vital part of the State Government’s strategy to ensure people in Queensland’s Indigenous communities have access to fair and culturally sensitive justice processes and safer communities.

“These groups work with Indigenous communities to implement diversionary and early intervention strategies.

“By developing networks with government and non-government agencies they help ensure that issues impacting on Indigenous Justice are addressed in the justice system.

“Through their strong community links they engage with Indigenous communities and build their capacity to resolve justice related issues at a community level.”

The State Government has allocated $3.89 million in funding to Indigenous Community Justice Groups, which will enable them to continue to deliver critical justice support services to the Queensland community.

Mr Pitt said the groups provided valuable support to Indigenous people who came in contact with the justice system, including victims, witness and defendants.

“Last financial year, Community Justice Groups provided assistance and support to more than 58,000 clients across the state,” Mr Pitt said.

“The Government will continue to support this program in 2009-10 with this funding, along with training for community justice groups developed in partnership with TAFE Queensland and support for the State-wide Community Justice Reference Group.”