Hunter teens have $200,000 in unpaid fines, according to new report

BY SHY-ANN ARKINSTALL

According to data from Revenue NSW, Hunter residents under the age of 18 owe more than $200,000 in unpaid fines.

Researchers out of the University of Newcastle have been studying the trend, and say many young people are showing signs of financial stress including skipping meals and making late payments on bills.

Research has also found, many are turning to credit options to pay fines and bills leading to interest costs and further financial stress.

Senior Sociology Lecturer at the University of Newcastle, Dr. Julia Cook says most fines owed by those under 18 are transport fines for travelling without a valid ticket and believes most are likely not paying because they can't afford it.

"They may get a fine but also through that process they may become known to the transport officers and that means they may be likely to get picked up on that again and that can be a bit of a cycle," Dr. Cook said.

Dr. Cook also pointed out there is an assumption, parents will be able to pay fines if children cannot afford it, but said this is not always a case, especially amid the current cost of living crisis.

"Young people can have issues getting their L plates and their P plates; if they have outstanding fines that can be a roadblock to getting those sorts of things that young people are not always aware of. Particularly for young people who live in areas that may not have great public transport or if they have started a trade and they really need to be able to drive or just to have employment, it can be a real roadblock to their goals," Dr. Cook said.

Dr. Cook also said there are alternative methods of payments for fines which should utilised by young people struggling to pay fines, such as requesting a Work and Development Order where, through work, study, or financial counselling, you can get your fines reduced.

Work and Development Orders can be carried out at places such as PCYC and the University of Newcastle, among others.

"I think we need to look at why these people are accruing fines. If people are taking public transport and aren't paying their fare I don't think they should necessarily be receiving a fine for that. I think there needs to be some kind of further examination because even when people are on a low income they still need to be able to access essential services," Dr. Cook said.

Young Voices Heard at Newcastle Youth Forum

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Young people from the Hunter had their say on a number of big-ticket issues at last night's Newcastle Youth Forum. 

Federal Minster for Youth Dr Anne Aly was joined by Federal Members for Newcastle and Paterson Sharon Claydon and Meryl Swanson respectively, for the event at Nobbys Surf Lifesaving Club. 

Talking points included youth mental health, reforms to the education system and participation in local live music. 

Dr Anne Aly, says the government needs to work with young people, as well as for them. 

"When we talk about youth, one of the things I think we've made a mistake on in the past, is looking at them as a singular group or a monolith, but we know the issues are different for youth in different regions, postcodes or cohorts," Dr Aly said. 

"It's really important to hear from young people in all their diversities." 

Youth Committee for The Hunter Members Dylan Shoesmith and Joel Mackaway were in attendance at the forum.   

Mr Shoesmith said it was a good opportunity to engage directly with policy-makers.

"Here in the Hunter we've got a lot of very passionate young people who are very keen on ensuring our region continues in prosperity," he said. 

"It's great to have some very high-profile politicians come along and be willing to really engage and listen to what young people have to say." 

"Hopefully we'll see some concrete action come out of it."  

Similarly, Mr Mackaway was pleased to have an opportunity to be given a seat at the table. 

"I think it makes it easier for young people to get involved in politics because it's usually a thing people find boring or just for older people," he said. 

"To have opportunities to speak your mind and talk to people that can actually make change is really beneficial for participation for young people." 

Unemployment Rates Drop Across the Hunter

BY BELLA MIDDLETON

                                  

                                            

Unemployment rates across the Hunter have significantly dropped, according to new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. 

In December 2022, the unemployment rate in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie dropped from 3% to 2.8% percent, while the Hunter Valley rates dropped from 4.6%  to 2.7%. 

The drop sees the Hunter region outperform the rest of New South Wales, with the state-wide average sitting at 3.5%. 

Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes, said the numbers paint the picture of a strong and healthy economy across the region.

"This is unheard of in recent times. These figures continue to show a bright picture for people in our region seeking work and no signs of a change in the difficulties businesses are having seeking to attract workers from the ranks of the unemployed," Mr Hawes said. 

Youth unemployment rates across the area are also stabilising at 7.5%, which has halved compared to pre-COVID figures across the region. 

"It's really showing that the youth, if they want to give themselves the opportunity to join the workforce, they can do so. That's really encouraging, given the start we need those people to have in life, in terms of workforce commitment and engagement," Mr Hawes said. 

"We've got plenty of businesses that are as busy as they've ever been, and we think on-balance, the region will do quite well, even though many economists are tipping a downturn towards mid-2023."

The workforce participation rate in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie has remained above the 70% mark, with the Hunter Valley rates returning to its pre-Covid figure of 64%. 

Over 32,700 jobs have been created in the Hunter region since December 2019, a growth of 9% at a time when the ABS estimated the workforce grew by 6.7%. 

Two Hunter Locals Join Regional Youth Taskforce

BY OLIVIA DILLON

Two young leaders from the Hunter have been selected as members of this year's Regional Youth Taskforce. 

Comprised of 18 members from across the state, the Taskforce will meet throughout the year to drive for policy change within the state government, and advocate for real outcomes for young people. 

The Hunter representatives are Jorji Taaffe from Merriwa, and Jessica Patman from Warners Bay. 

They're both seeking to tackle youth mental health in the region, and will drive policy change around their own special interests. 

Taaffe said she will be focusing on advocating for rural health. 

"I just believe we're lacking resources compared to our urban counterparts, and that's what I really want to change this year," she said. 

"If we have more resources here, it's going to be easier to get people back into the health system and address the lack of resources." 

Jessica Patman wants to bring mental heath and LGBTQI+ health to the forefront. 

"Research shows 75% of mental health concerns emerge before the age of 25, and currently within society, stigma and lack of  access to appropriate and affordable services is preventing a lot of young people from actually accessing support when they need it," Patman said. 

"I think there's also a lack of understanding around gender and sexuality and that's increasing narratives around stereotypes and is increasing discrimination further." 

"It would be amazing if LGBTQI+ youth could have more safe spaces within the Hunter where they could connect and socialize." 

Jorji Taaffe added how important it is to give back to the Hunter community. 

"I'm really excited to have been given this opportunity, not just for myself but for my community. By encouraging my peers and fellow students, I really hope I can make a change." 

Cessnock Youth Centre opens new community kitchen

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Cessnock Youth Centre has opened a brand new kitchen facility to help young people get a head-start on their culinary skills.

It's been delivered as part of Council's 2021-25 Youth Engagement Strategy, and has been funded with a $120,226 grant from the State's Stronger Country Communities Fund.

The new facility includes preparation stations, an industrial oven and cooktop, commercial fridge and freezer, as well as teaching space.

The kitchen can also be hired, with Coalfields Healthy Heartbeats currently using the space for a four-week cooking class with a dietician.

Council's hoping the new kitchen will be used for after-school and holiday activities, as well as for special events like Youth Week and other programs.

Cessnock City Council’s Youth Services Coordinator Megan Harbrow, Council’s General Manager Ken Liddell, Council’s Senior Youth Worker Niamh Walpole, Charlie Brooks, Cessnock City Mayor Jay Suvaal, and Council’s Building Maintenance Coordinator Noel Sweetman.

Youth Week to offer days of fun activities for Newcastle's younger generation

BY LLEYTON SMITH

Newcastle Council has announced the 2022 Youth Week to launch on Monday.

The Youth Week runs from 4th to 14th of April to highlight the contribution of the city's young people through a number of offered programs and activities on offer around the community. 

Street art sessions, DJ'ing workshops, a skateboarding and photography program are among some of the activities on offer for the younger generation during Youth Week 2022.

The activities and programs have been made possible after Newcastle Youth Council partnered with a number of organisations including UP&UP Inspirations, Street Art Express, Capture My Community and more.

City of Newcastle and the New South Wales Department of Community and Justice have provided matched funding towards the activities. 

The aim of the week is to engage with and acknowledge the role of young people from all backgrounds within the local community. 

Young people are encouraged to participate and get involved during the week to not only enjoy the activities on show but also build social skills and learn new things. 

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen believes it's very powerful to have a week of recognition for the City's youth and important to invest in early engagement of the youth in the hope of future prosperity. 

"The UP&UP program, particularly focusing on street art provides new opportunities for young people, as opposed to some of the more concerning trends that exist across society as we've seen an increase in complaints for graffiti across the city," Cr Clausen says.

"This provides a tangible way for young people to be involved in street art and participate in creating something with great value, rather then something that's seen as destructive." 

Young Athletes in the Hunter Region Formally Recognised During Presentation

BY HANNAH-LOUISE ANDERSON

The Federal Member for the Hunter Joel Fitzgibbon has formally acknowledged the sporting achievements of young local athletes during a presentation at Cameron Park on Monday 29th April.

Aged from twelve to eighteen, twenty-eight sports competitors were awarded cash donations ranging from five-hundred to seven-hundred-and-fifty dollars to support their future endeavors. Regional- based athletes were provided larger cash-bonuses in appreciation of the distances they have traveled to compete.

Participants in sports such as Athletics, Soccer, Netball, Ice Skating and Tenpin Bowling were included amongst those who were awarded during the presentation.

The Honourable Joel Fitzgibbon stated, "The recipients of the Local Sporting Champions grants have displayed dedication and drive to reach a high level of achievement in their chosen fields."

Mr. Fitzgibbon also took the time to acknowledge the contributions of the coaches, families, and friends that have supported the athletes, "Thank you also to the parents and carers, sporting coaches and the many volunteers at local sporting clubs who have invested time and effort in helping these young athletes reach their best."

Photo by https://agedcare.royalcommission.gov.au

Young Minds Gather at Newcastle Youth Forum

BY JESSICA KRAUSE

Around 40 young Novocastrians have met together today to attend the 2019 Newcastle Youth Forum at the University of Newcastle's NewSpace campus.

Shadow Minister for Young Australians, Terri Butler joined local Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon at the event in addition to Youth Mayor Monique Aganovic.

Young people were encouraged to discuss ideas and raise issues important to them at the Forum, including those surrounding climate change, and mental health.

Ms Claydon said it was important for Novocastrian youth to have continual ways for their voices to be heard.

"There is a strong, vibrant youth culture here in Newcastle, and making sure that there are avenues for young people, so they're not feeling as frustrated... is really important."

Shadow Minister for Young Australians, Terri Butler said she wanted the concerns and interests voiced at the Forum to have a significant place within government discussions.

"Something we want to do is make sure that young people's voices, concerns and interests are front and centre decision making and considerations of government," said Ms Butler.

Ms Butler also noted the hopes she had for the diversity of the group involved in the discussion.

"What I'm really excited about is the chance to listen to a range of views and a range of perspectives and to really understand some of the conversations that are happening here in Newcastle about what young people need."

Sharon Claydon said she hoped the different community groups involved would be able to collaborate in their endeavours.

"It's good to bring everybody together, there will hopefully be some alliances formed... where people discover they can help each other out in projects that they're trying to pursue."

Ms Claydon also noted overall significance of young people being involved in politics in Newcastle.

"It is very, very wrong to make the assumption that young people are not engaged in the political process.

"They are frustrated, and they do need assistance to figure out how to navigate that political system, and that's what this forum is a part of today" she said.

Monique Aganovic said she was grateful for the opportunity for youth to discuss issues that were bothering them, and have their opinions voiced.

"People think there's a disconnect between young people and politics, and it's just not true.

"We are here, we do care, we're screaming out to be heard, and we've shown that through our words and our actions."

Image Meghan Richardson/2NURFM News

Newcastle Police Disappointed by Youth Crime Over Weekend

BY TYLER FARDELL AND LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Hunter police are shaking their heads after a string of incidents over the weekend involving youths as young as 12 which left multiple police cars damaged.

Police are still searching for two offenders after a group of four teenagers crashed a stolen Toyota Camry into a police car in Lake Macquarie.

Meanwhile, two other police cars were hit in a dangerous police pursuit resulting in the arrest of a 16-year-old Windale teenager.

Newcastle Chief Inspector Gerard Lawson says despite the police having their hands full this weekend, they are well equipped to handle all situations.

"We've certainly been very busy across a number of districts," he said, "police are well-equipped to do that sort of thing but it has been noticeably busier this weekend..."

However, Chief Inspector Lawson said it's disappointing to see this sort of conduct happening in the Hunter.

"None of the officers have lingering injuries, but they certainly were quite shaken and distressed one of the vehicles was rammed in Mayfield while police were just trying to detain a car full of young people," he said.

"...Especially from the perspective that these children have never held a licence and have never taken a driving lesson yet are driving around in vehicles and doing dangerous things."

It comes after a 23-year-old woman suffered back injuries after roof-hopping between two properties on Laman Street, Cooks Hill on Saturday night.

Police have issued a stern warning against the practice.

"If you're thinking of doing that just remember that on TV, it looks good," Inspector Lawson said, "but on TV there are highly-trained stunt people who risk-assess and use apparatus for safety - but when you're out there in real life it doesn't work that way."

Hunter charities receive welcome funding

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

Health and wellbeing projects carried out by Hunter charities are set to receive a welcome boost, with the nib foundation's announcement of this year's Community Grant Program recipients.

Amongst the 10 beneficiaries, six will conduct projects to improve the health of youths and carers within the Hunter region- Camp Quality; Family Planning NSW; Youth Off the Streets; Diabetes NSW; Waves of Wellness and the Australian Trust for Conservation Workers.

They'll share in $300,000 worth of funding, with grants ranging from $5000 to $50,000 being awarded by the foundation.

Executive Officer of the nib foundation, Amy Tribe, said it represents a continued commitment to improving local health services.

"This is our ninth annual Community Grant round," she said, "we've provided nearly $16 million in grant funding to more than 105 charity partners here in the Hunter and across Australia during that time."

Ms Tribe said nib foundation has recognised the need for better access to health services and education and programs which develop life-skills and social connectedness as a priority.

She believes the charities chosen are making a real difference in the lives of at-risk individuals.

"We'll be helping Camp Quality to train more volunteers, we'll be expanding the Waves of Wellness therapy programs for young people with mental health problems in the Port Stephens area, and our grants will also support Youth Off the Streets to continue their work with highly disadvantaged youths in the Kurri Kurri region."