LOCALS URGED TO SPEAK OUT ON YOUTH VIOLENCE

14-September-2009

Local residents and community organisations are being urged to take part in a new Parliamentary Inquiry into the impact of violence on young people.

The Standing Committee on Family, Community, Housing and Youth has agreed to conduct the inquiry, which will also examine strategies to address the problem.

“I encourage all concerned residents, especially parents, young people and those who work with young people, to have their say on this vitally important issue,” Sophie Mirabella, Federal Member for Indi and Shadow Minister for Youth said.

“Violence is a growing concern in the community generally and the Inquiry will help Parliament develop ways to address the problem, especially as it impacts on young people.”

Mrs Mirabella said that local residents had until Friday 23rd October to make a submission and that hearings would then be conducted around the country. 

Mrs Mirabella is a member of the Committee and wants to ensure that views from North-East Victorians are heard. “This is an important opportunity to gain a better understanding of a serious problem which impacts on many Australian families,” Mrs Mirabella said.

“I know that the issue of bullying in schools has been in the media spotlight and this is one area the Committee will examine.”

 “This Inquiry will enable young Australians to communicate their experiences and perceptions of violence directly to the Committee,” Mrs Mirabella said.

The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Family, Community, Housing and Youth will inquire and report on the impact of violence on young Australians with particular reference to:

·           perceptions of violence and community safety among young Australians;

·           links between illicit drug use, alcohol abuse and violence among young Australians;

·           the relationship between bullying and violence and the wellbeing of young Australians;

·           social and economic factors that contribute to violence by young Australians; and

·           strategies to reduce violence and its impact among young Australians.

“I encourage all young people, parents, and local community organisations in the electorate to participate in the inquiry process,” Mrs Mirabella said.

Further details are available on the Committee website: www.aph.gov.au/fchy .