Young people from across SA will benefit from a $1,465,608 boost for Operation Flinders delivered in the recent federal Budget under the Safer Communities Fund.
The funding will support Operation Flinders in its work to transform the lives of young people from the age of 13 - 18 through its programs held in the northern Flinders Ranges.
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Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said Operation Flinders was almost universally recognised as an exemplar of an intervention program to turn the lives of young people around.
"Operation Flinders is a first-class initiative, which has been running since 1991 helping kids with behavioural issues experience the positive effects of outdoor and personal challenges," he said.
"Since that time the program has seen hundreds of participants develop personal attitudes, self-esteem, motivation and team work to help ensure they can participate in the community as valued members.
"The eight-day program includes a trek up to 100 kilometres, abseiling, Indigenous culture, bushcraft and self-confidence building."
Operation Flinders chief executive officer David Wark said the organisation was thrilled to be a beneficiary of this funding.
"Most importantly this contribution will allow us to see our programs continue to support young people and local communities over the coming years," he said.
"Without support and funding, Operation Flinders are unable to support the 600 young people through our program each year, the 60 teams from schools and that participate in the program, the dozens of referrals into our Step Out program and the upkeep and maintenance of Yankininna Station that is mantained and operated by over 50 volunteers.
"This funding will ensure our commitment to these young people and continue to help us deliver programs that are in such demand by communities, families and schools who have heard of the great success of Operation Flinders and our programs."
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Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs Jason Wood said the additional funding was in response to overwhelming demand from the community and would support organisations with demonstrated experience in helping marginalised youth, to build resilience, strengthen community connections and job readiness skills.
"These community organisations do vital work in helping get young people on the right track," he said.
The funding will be delivered under the latest round of the Safer Communities Fund, which has invested more than $315m to more than 800 local communities to deliver grassroots crime prevention initiatives since 2016.
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