COMMUNITY groups can now apply for funding to tackle youth crime.

Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann, announced this week that applications were now open for the Federal Government’s $28.4 million Youth Empowerment Program.

The aim of the program is to divert young people from a life of crime and anti-social behaviour.

“The program will target the root causes of youth crime and strengthen community safety by providing resources to community-based organisations working with young people aged 10 to 17,” Mr Neumann said.

“The program is being funded from the confiscated assets of convicted criminals.”

Eligible organisations will be able to apply for grants from $300,000 to $1 million for practical initiatives on the ground, including:

• Awareness campaigns and programs to prevent criminal and anti-social behaviours;

• Workforce preparation and vocational skills development;

• Healthy decision making to foster positive connections with communities;

• Youth justice conferencing; and

• Transition from detention support.

Applications close on January 28.