Young people in Mount Druitt who are at risk of entering the justice system will receive additional support through community-led programs aimed at improving outcomes and strengthening community safety.
The NSW Government has announced almost $5 million in funding through its Community Safety Investment Fund, with more than 25 projects across the state set to benefit.
Among the successful recipients is the Mounty After Hours – Youth Safety & Community Cohesion Program, a Mount Druitt-based initiative designed to provide positive engagement opportunities for young people while helping to create a safer community.
The funding will support a range of locally driven projects across both metropolitan and regional NSW, including night-time safe spaces, mentoring programs, family support services, and pathways into education, training and employment.
The grants form part of the NSW Government’s broader investment of more than $124 million in youth crime prevention and diversion programs. The Community Safety Investment Fund will provide up to $5 million over two years to support community-led solutions that prevent youth offending, strengthen families and improve community safety.
Minister for Youth Justice, Jihad Dib, said early intervention was critical in helping young people avoid involvement in the criminal justice system.
“When young people are given the right support early, it can change their path, and that’s exactly what these local organisations are working to do,” Mr Dib said.
“We’re helping young people and their families reconnect with education, training and employment through programs that are locally designed and delivered.
“Long-term, we want to see fewer young people interacting with the criminal justice system while strengthening community safety and providing opportunities for young people to make positive choices.”
Member for Mount Druitt, Edmond Atalla, welcomed the funding, saying local communities are best placed to identify solutions that work.
“This funding is about backing our community to lead the solutions,” Mr Atalla said.
“The people on the ground know what works, and these grants give them the support they need to keep young people engaged and our community safe.
“It is a practical investment in prevention, supporting local programs that help steer young people in the right direction before they end up in the justice system.”
Secretary of the Department of Communities and Justice, Michael Tidball, said community-based programs play an important role in connecting with at-risk young people before they come into contact with the justice system.

“By keeping these programs locally focused, we are empowering communities to take action, support young people and make their neighbourhoods safer,” he said.
Further information about the successful projects and funding recipients is available through Youth Justice NSW