At RiverTracks, we’re proud of the difference our programs are making for young people and the wider community. Since launching our programs in 2021, we’ve seen incredible growth, strong partnerships and life-changing outcomes, including:

• SUPPORTING MORE YOUNG PEOPLE: More than 89 young people have been referred to and engaged with RiverTracks.
• GROWING PARTICIPATION: Around 35 young people are actively participating. Some stay for a few weeks, others remain for over 18 months.
• CREATING OPPORTUNITIES: Young people gain real-world work experience with local businesses and 4 youth have secured ongoing employment.
• BUILDING VITAL SKILLS: From emotional regulation, communication and conflict resolution to teamwork, leadership and trade skills.
• STRONGER COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS: We’ve built partnerships with over 50 local services, including schools, police, youth justice, NDIS providers, community organisations and businesses.
• EXPANDING PROGRAMS: RiverTracks delivers programs four days a week during school terms with school holiday programs to keep youth connected and engaged.
• LISTENING AND LEARNING: We measure impact through regular surveys, mentoring feedback, attendance and case notes.

We’ve supported young people to:

• Stay engaged in school by providing meaningful alternatives to the classroom
• Access NDIS and mental health services
• Remain safely at home with family thanks to mentoring support
• Take the next step into education or training, including enrollment at TAFE.

Every dollar invested in RiverTracks helps keep young people engaged and out of the criminal justice system. The cost of keeping a young person in juvenile detention in Australia is around $1 million per year. Average cost of engaging a youth in RiverTracks programs (based on wages + meals + transport costs):

• Average cost to support one young person through a range of RiverTracks’ annual programs = $3,750
• Annual cost of one young person entering juvenile detention in Australia = $1 million
• Potential annual savings to the community when early intervention is delivered effectively = $996,250

Investing in RiverTracks’ early intervention youth programs (improving belonging, enhancing resilience, providing life skills and work pathways for youth), at the same time protects society and reduces the financial burden on the justice system.

Behind every number is a young person gaining skills, support and confidence. Here’s what it costs to make that happen:

• JET (youth gaining real job experience training) = $1,500 per youth
• Get on Track (youth learning real life skills and basic trade skills) = $2,250 per youth
• CaseConnect (one-on-one casework support) = $500 per youth
• River to Ranges (youth working with environmental organisations) = $1,000 per youth

Average cost to support one young person through their journey with RiverTracks = $3,750 per youth