Hunter MP Joel Fitzgibbon is spot on with his criticism of the Abbott government’s proposed budget cuts that could threaten youth training programs in the Hunter.
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Maitland’s Youth Express is among those at risk with half of its operations and staffing numbers on the line if the cuts go ahead.
Mr Fitzgibbon has launched a petition opposing the cuts, saying “our community needs to put pressure on the government right now”.
He rightly points out that such cuts are short-sighted, especially with rising youth unemployment now becoming a national problem.
“[Prime Minister] Tony Abbott needs to provide at least $128 million in this year’s budget to prevent Youth [Express], Partnership Brokers and career services from closing across the country,” Mr Fitzgibbon told the Mercury yesterday.
And he’s right. It should make the training of our youth a top priority.
Youth Express plays a major role in helping young people find their feet at one of the most difficult times of their lives – while they’re trying to find gainful employment.
It’s already tough enough in the job market for our young people without cutting services that play a major role in helping them get that start in life.
Youth Express CEO manager Julie Eldridge is mindful of the government’s need to balance its budget, but her appeal for funding to continue must be heard.
“These programs don’t cost money, they save money, and set young people on a path to productivity,” Ms Eldridge said.
And she’s right.
Youth Express plays a major role in our schools, TAFE campuses and trade training centres.
Please sign the petition.