Community and political leaders in Far North Queensland are intensifying their demands for the Liberal National Party to fulfill its election commitment to establish a youth justice school in Cairns.
Election Promise Under Scrutiny
The LNP made a significant pre-election pledge to tackle youth crime in the region by creating a dedicated youth justice facility, but details about the project's timeline and location remain unclear months after the party took office. Mulgrave MP Curtis Pitt has been particularly vocal in his criticism, accusing the government of delaying the much-needed initiative.
During the election campaign, the LNP specifically promised to "explore a youth co-responder model and a youth justice school in Cairns" as part of their comprehensive approach to addressing youth crime. The commitment was seen as a direct response to growing community concerns about youth offending in the region.
Political Pressure Intensifies
Michael Healy, the member for Cairns, has joined the chorus of voices calling for action. "We need to see this delivered," Healy stated, emphasizing the importance of following through on election promises that directly impact community safety.
The pressure comes amid ongoing community frustration with youth crime rates in Far North Queensland. Local business owners and residents have repeatedly called for more effective interventions that address the root causes of youth offending while keeping communities safe.
Curtis Pitt has been particularly assertive in holding the government accountable, noting that the community expected swift action given the prominence of the youth crime issue during the election campaign. The lack of visible progress has raised questions about the government's priorities and implementation timeline.
Community Impact and Next Steps
The proposed youth justice school represents a proactive approach to dealing with young offenders through education and rehabilitation rather than purely punitive measures. Proponents argue that such facilities can break the cycle of reoffending by addressing underlying issues and providing young people with better life skills and opportunities.
As the political debate continues, community stakeholders are watching closely for any signs of progress. Local organizations working with at-risk youth have expressed hope that the facility will materialize, noting that early intervention is crucial for preventing long-term criminal behavior.
The situation in Cairns reflects broader challenges facing Queensland in addressing youth crime effectively. With pressure mounting from multiple fronts, the LNP government faces increasing scrutiny to demonstrate tangible progress on this key election commitment.
