The Victorian Government recently announced a range of measures to improve the youth justice system in Victoria. After too many years of inaction by the previous Government, we have been required to take action, to ensure the safety, security and wellbeing of Victorians.

I recognise that one of these measures, a purpose-built youth justice facility at a preferred location in Werribee South has caused concern. The Government assessed a number of sites in Wyndham due to its proximity to other correctional facilities.  Sites outside Wyndham were also considered.

The site on Hoppers Lane (south end) remains the preferred location. It is more suitable in terms of size, accessibility for staff currently based at Parkville, the projected needs for youth justice services, while also being able to commence construction quickly. This means we can move quickly to ensure the safety and security of staff, young people and the community – which continues to be this Government’s number one focus.

Importantly, the facility will generate significant economic opportunities for one of the fastest growing corridors in the nation.

I have always stood up for the people of Werribee, and I will continue doing that, knowing that this is an opportunity for our growing community, one that will create up to 3000 construction and related jobs and deliver an estimated economic benefit of almost $420 million for Wyndham City. The facility will not have an impact on the East Werribee Employment Precinct.

The facility will bring 450 ongoing jobs to the area and support the development of new local infrastructure, including improved public transport. This will further stimulate our local economy, providing jobs and opportunities for our kids and prosperity for our growing community.

I have fought long and hard for the people of Werribee and Wyndham. From increased services through Regional Rail Link, the Werribee Mercy Hospital Upgrade, new schools such as Manor Lakes College and
Suzanne Cory High School, and support for the Werribee South irrigation district. I have always sought the best outcome for our growing community – creating jobs, and a smarter, safer, healthier Wyndham.

More recently I’ve fought for a series of upgrades to arterial roads in and around our community and for the removal of level crossings. We recently made the single largest investment in the history of Victoria Police, meaning more police on the beat in Wyndham, together with replacing the local Police Station.

Community consultation sessions will be held over the next few weeks to provide further information about the facility, the timeline for construction and to make sure you have the opportunity to ask questions. I hope and trust that we can have a respectful discussion during this time.

More information on these community consultation sessions will be provided in the coming days, with notices in the local paper and updates at www.dhhs.vic.gov.au.

In the meantime, if you have questions you can contact the Government’s dedicated Hoppers Lane Youth Justice Centre Information Line from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday on 1800 630 738.