Youth Work Awards 2024 Shortlisted Nominations

All the amazing, shortlisted nominees for the Youth Work Awards 2024 described below. A big thank you to all of you who took the time to nominate yourselves, your colleagues, your friends, and some of the great programs and services for young people across NSW.

See the Awards winners 2024

Award Categories

Outstanding Work with Young People from Diverse Cultures, Backgrounds, Experiences (an organisation, program or service)
Outstanding Work with First Nations Young People (an organisation, program or service)
Outstanding Work with Regional Young People (an organisation, program or service)
Outstanding Youth Participation (an organisation, program or service)
Outstanding Partnership (an organisation, program or service)
NSW Youth Service of the Year (an organisation, program or service)
NSW Youth Sector Volunteer of the Year (an individual)
NSW Youth Worker of the Year (an individual)
NSW Emerging Youth Worker of the Year (an individual who has worked in the youth sector for under 3 years)
NSW Youth Work Hall of Fame

Outstanding Work with Young People from Diverse Cultures, Backgrounds, Experiences

The Culture Lab

The Culture Lab is a facilitated safe space for young people who operate as cultural consultants and are invited to represent their communities at roundtables, in enquiries, and research programs. The Culture Lab supports young emerging leaders to elevate the voice of their communities and contribute to the social fabric that makes up our uniquely Australian society. This program supports all young people within Australia with a tool kit of resources and training that supports young people to clarify their role when invited to speak on complex issues such as the impact of global events on local communities including conflict, crises, and matters of humanitarian concern. The Culture Lab represents a new narrative of multiculturalism as a community of young people, First Nations, Anglo-European, migrant and refugee communities, brought together by their resilience and passion for amplifying young voices.

Assertive Outreach Team

The Assertive Outreach Team of three caseworkers support young people experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness in the Nepean, Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury Local Government Areas. They utilise a proactive, multifaceted approach to resolve compounding factors that led to the younger person’s circumstances. Staff travel to specific ’hotspot’ areas and public spaces with the presence of vulnerable young people based on referrals, including riverbanks, bush, skate parks, and carparks. Their therapeutic, trauma-informed “out of box” service delivery model is adapted to the young people’s needs. Once engaged, the team assists, refers and supports the young person to achieve outcomes, including access and referrals to housing, other identified intensive supports, and service providers, to link them back into community.

Orana Support Services

Orana Support Service (OSS) is a specialist homelessness service funded by the Department of Communities and Justice. They offer a Women’s refuge, Men’s Refuge, transitional housing, head-lease properties and wraparound supports. Their clients are known to be or at risk of homelessness, including women and children experiencing domestic and family violence, rough sleepers, young people leaving care, people with mental health issues and people living in unsafe conditions. Their client service officers work with their clients to establish and implement achievable case management plans. Witnessing clients’ difficulty in accessing daily necessities, OSS established op shops in Dubbo and Wellington for donated clothing and household items as well doing a daily food run to Dubbo supermarkets which is a regular supply of food which they allocate to their refuges and clients.

Young Queerios

Young Queerios is a pioneering program dedicated to supporting and empowering queer and questioning youth aged 12 to 24. Through a variety of innovative programs and initiatives, Queer Family creates safe and affirming spaces for young people to explore their identities, connect with peers, and build resilience. By embedding the voices of young people in every aspect of their work, Queer Family ensures that their services are relevant, responsive, and impactful.

All One Under the Sun

‘All One Under the Sun’ is a remedy to racism campaign for the whole community, driven by young people from Indigenous, refugee background and mainstream, using the arts to promote inclusion, belonging, connection, education and empowerment. Arts-based messaging is used to build resilience in communities and stand against racism. Songs, film clips, documentary, mural, theatre shows, training programs and flash dances were facilitated centering young people’s voices at the core. The project’s official launch was in April 2022, with the release of an original song and a film clip and documentary. The project continues to grow which has a website showcasing the many young people led projects. https://www.alloneunderthesun.com.au/  

Pathfinders’ Tilbuster Station

Pathfinders’ Tilbuster Station, a working farm located on the outskirts of Armidale, has been a lifeline for vulnerable and at-risk young people in the district for more than 11 years. Young people have the opportunity to learn horticulture, connect with country and culture, participate in community activities, and work with experienced youth workers who help them to reach their full potential. Tilbuster was gifted to Pathfinders on the condition it would provide support to disadvantaged young people and their families to help them to become thriving members of our communities. Pathfinders is delivering on its commitment, by providing a range of agricultural activities tailored to build confidence, communication, and positive self-esteem for young people and their families.

Unaccompanied Humanitarian Minors (UHM)

Unaccompanied Humanitarian Minors (UHM) are young people who have travelled to Australia under the Australian Federal Government’s humanitarian program through the Department of Home Affairs. These young people are without parents or guardians and are granted refuge in Australia, in primary and secondary schooling. Marist180 provides 24/7 support, taking on day-to-day parental responsibilities for these young people. The collaborative program takes a holistic approach to support each child by nurturing their culture, religion, and individual strength to enable them to integrate into the country and to develop community relationships. Through strong community and government partnerships, they can provide wraparound support networks the children and young people require to successfully and confidently transition from the program.

UNSW Water Safety Program

Over 25% of drownings in Australia occur within culturally and linguistically diverse communities, with international students particularly at risk due to 85% arriving with no knowledge of the Australian beach safety flag system. Established through the Health and Wellbeing Ambassador Program in 2018, the UNSW Water Safety Program seeks to address this issue by providing an immersive, educational experience that promotes generational change, inclusivity in beach culture and reduce drowning fatalities. Co-designed, delivered and implemented by students and volunteers, the program has evolved to include a learn-to-swim initiative, beach safety walk, grant program and other new educational components. Since its inception, over 1,700 students have participated from over 50 countries and 5,000 students have engaged with the program, enabling international students to engage with the Australian community, gain employment and improve their health and wellbeing.

Brave Foundation

Brave Foundation equips expecting and parenting young people with resources, referral, and education opportunities to facilitate happy, healthy, and connected families. In New South Wales, Brave has two place-based mentors supporting participants in Newcastle and surrounding rural areas and delivers training digitally. Their flexible 12-month program works with young parents aged under 25 who began parenting at 19 years or under and can extend to parents who started parenting aged 21 or under living in rural, regional, and remote locations. Mentors facilitate key connections between the young parents and existing local, state and federal programs and initiatives. They also advocate for the young parents and champion them and their children to achieve their goals, navigate challenges, develop skills and knowledge to flourish in their parenting journey.

Outstanding Work with First Nations Young People

KARI

KARI is the biggest ACCO in NSW and leads the OOHC the sector when it comes to supporting young people transition into adulthood. This includes being sensitive and respectful when it comes to using appropriate language when discussing this important transition. They have heard from many young people that the thought of “leaving care” is daunting at the best of times and have taken the consultation to heart buy shifting our focus to youth engagement. The Youth Engagement team sits within the cultural unit, where there is a natural fit with many of the programs that are run within that setup. That also ensures Culture is front and centre regarding young people and their continuing journey.

Grow the Music (GTM)

Grow the Music (GTM) has been developing music communities around Australia since 2012. Through Grow the Music’s development workshops, projects, performances and events, music becomes a powerful tool for developing self-expression and increasing wellbeing and connection with their peers and wider community. They believe anyone can create music, and their approach is inclusive, intergenerational and participant-led. They take a community approach, encouraging and supporting musicians and performing artists to develop their networks. Their partners and volunteers play a valuable part in their ability to impact positively on the wellbeing of individuals, families and whole communities through the medium of music.

LeaderLife

LeaderLife’s mission is a simple: to help kids doing it tough to live their best life. LeaderLife is a charity based in Dubbo, dedicated to reversing unsettling trends of early school-leaving, unemployment and youth incarceration among regional youth aged 12 to 24. Since 2011, LeaderLife has been engaging and holistically supporting vulnerable and marginalised youth through innovative programs and services. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, kids feel a sense of belonging, generosity, independence, and are always learning. LeaderLife empowers young people to overcome incredible life challenges, build resilience and achieve their full potential.

Midjuburi Youth Resource Centre (MYRC)

Midjuburi Youth Resource Centre (MYRC) is a youth service located in Marrickville in the Inner West of Sydney. MYRC works with and supports young people from a broad range of diverse backgrounds, empowering them to reach their full potential in an environment where they feel safe, heard and valued. They offer a broad range of programs and services, including case management, counseling, sport, creative activities and education programs.

Hebersham Aboriginal Youth Service (HAYS) House

Hebersham Aboriginal Youth Service (HAYS) House addresses the critical needs of homeless Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in the Mount Druitt area. HAYS first established in 1989 as a self – determined First Nations youth service, using a unique partnership approach. Collaborating with an Aboriginal Reference group, Marist Youth Care and the Department of Community Services (now Department of Communities and Justice), HAYS House provided crucial direction and expertise in developing support services. Expanding from direct outreach support with two Aboriginal caseworkers in 2004, HAYS introduced intensive, supported accommodation services for young people experiencing crisis. HAYS House continues to be a beacon of hope, providing tailored support and fostering resilience among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth, empowering them to overcome adversity and achieve their potential.

My Voice, My Journey

My Voice, My Journey is a transformative program designed to empower First Nations youth aged 12 to 24 by fostering a strong sense of cultural identity and leadership. Founded and managed by Todman Chatfield, a proud Wiradjuri man, the program connects young people with Elders, Knowledge Holders, and other communities, enabling them to explore and strengthen their cultural roots. Through these journeys, participants are supported in finding and amplifying their voices, empowering them to influence decisions about their lives and communities. The program provides a culturally safe environment where First Nations youth can share their stories, address hidden challenges, and develop resilience and leadership skills for a brighter future. Participants engage in self-development activities, yarning circles, and technical media skills workshops, culminating in a community event where they showcase their stories through a documentary-style film.

Nugget Beames Reserve Project

The Nugget Beames Reserve Project began as an anti-vandalism initiative for a Camden Council sporting amenity but evolved into a significant community endeavour. It provided local First Nations youth the opportunity to celebrate and learn about their culture while improving the streetscape. The sporting amenities building at Nugget Beams Reserve in Narellan Vale was frequently vandalised. With support from the Department of Communities and Justice through the Graffiti Management Grant, Camden Council engaged local Indigenous artist Melissa Barton to transform the site. She collaborated with approximately 25 Indigenous students to design and create an Indigenous public art display and native garden that revitalised the area, turning a vandalised building into a celebrated community space and recognising the contributions of the young artists.

Outstanding Work with Regional Young People

LeaderLife

LeaderLife’s mission is a simple: to help kids doing it tough to live their best life. LeaderLife is a charity based in Dubbo, dedicated to reversing unsettling trends of early school-leaving, unemployment and youth incarceration among regional youth aged 12 to 24. Since, 2011, LeaderLife has been engaging and holistically supporting vulnerable and marginalised youth through innovative programs and services. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, where kids feel a sense of belonging, generosity, independence, and are always learning LeaderLife empowers young people to overcome incredible life challenges, build resilience and achieve their full potential. Over the years LeaderLife has loved thousands of regional kids and young people back to life.

On-Country Pathways (OCP)

On-Country Pathways (OCP) is an Indigenous not-for-profit charity that was established in 2021, to provide employment and career pathways opportunities for First Nations youth in the Riverina-Murray and Ovens-Murray regions on the NSW/VIC border region of Albury-Wodonga. They deliver three programs for youth aged 15-24 years: Work Experience, Driver-Mentoring and Job Placement Support. These programs focus on addressing the barriers to youth employment as identified by community and they are underpinned by community development, cultural safety and mentoring. They work closely with partner organisations to implement their programs including local Aboriginal organisations, community groups and networks, schools, TAFEs, local businesses, employment services and other support services.

Orana Support Service

Queer Family

Queer Family is a peer-led, Health Promotion Charity in Mullumbimby. They reduce social isolation and improve mental wellbeing through the creation of safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ people and allies to connect, build, and strengthen community in the Northern Rivers. The Young Queerios program focuses on creating community for young people aged 12-24, who have experienced significant isolation between lockdowns and flood-related school closures. This has meant an inability for many to develop their identities within the safety of queer community. As a unique peer-led service in the region, it offers many young people the only safe, affirming space they have ever had access to. They have primarily focused on small towns in the Byron Shire, as well as nearby towns which are under-represented in terms of events, services, and options for the queer community.

KYUP! Project

KYUP! Project is a youth-serving nonprofit organisation with over 15 years of experience delivering gender-specific, out-of-school workshops and in-school programs to children and young people aged 12 – 22 years in NSW, QLD and SA. KYUP’s mission is to empower youth to raise their standards and champion their safety and well-being by amplifying their voices, emboldening their courage, and imparting critical life and self-defense skills to take on challenges confidently. The organisation’s goals are to:

Support youth to identify and develop protective skills against violence and its negative effects.
Prepare youth should they need to defend their boundaries and/or physical safety.
Build a social-emotional foundation for youth to grow into healthy young adults and leaders.
Support youth in examining their intersectional identities and issues of equity in their communities.

Mac River

Mac River is a residential rehabilitation service located in Dubbo, for young people aged 13-18 who are experiencing chronic drug and alcohol issues. The service provides trauma-informed and culturally safe support for three months in residence, followed by six months of aftercare in the community which is partially funded through the Sir David Martin Foundation. Mac River referrals are received through Youth Justice for young people whose established use of alcohol and other drugs places them at significant risk of harm. The team provides 24-hour support offering a stable, secure environment where young people can make positive changes. Through their stay, young people are provided support around strengthening life skills and interpersonal skills, increasing personal resilience and confidence, building social networks, and accessing cultural programs and activities.

The Albury Project

‘The Albury Project’ is a local, community-driven partnership, delivering a genuine early intervention response to youth homelessness, early school leaving and mental health. It is partnered with lead agent Yes Unlimited, Headspace Albury-Wodonga, Albury-Wodonga Mental Health, Albury City Council, the Department of Communities and Justice, Upstream Australia and the three public high schools, James Fallon, Murray, and Albury High. In 2018, a group of services and schools led by Yes Unlimited decided they were fed up with responding to the challenges young people face when it is already too late. They decided to do something about it, even though no additional funding was on the table. Alongside Associate Professor David Mackenzie, they developed a ‘Community of Schools and Services’ (COSS). This approach pulls schools and services together, proactively identifying young people requiring support, before issues escalate. They support young people in crisis through population screening, systemised collaboration and using a data and outcomes focus.

BEST Community Services

BEST Community Services delivers person-centred programs to vulnerable people in the New England area, offering links to further support, case management, advocacy, transport, and mentoring. They primarily work with remote communities facing significant service access gaps. Most programs are in outreach settings, ensuring comfort for all involved. They mainly support young people aged 12-24, with over 70% of participants being of Aboriginal descent. Programs are culturally appropriate, providing education and connection to country through local Elders, cultural trips, weaving, didgeridoo workshops, and ancestry research. BEST Community Services strives to evolve its practices, encouraging feedback from young people, parents, carers, and the community to ensure meaningful changes and growth.

One Vision Productions

One Vision Productions is an innovative not-for-profit dedicated to transforming the lives of at-risk youth in Australia through arts-based programs and comprehensive mental health education. With over a decade of experience, they use music, film, and creativity to engage young people, build their confidence, and empower them with essential life skills. Their workshops provide a safe space for self-expression, fostering resilience and promoting positive mental health among participants, producing measurable and transformative outcomes. Participants gain vocational skills in music and film production, while experiencing significant improvements in their emotional and social well-being. These workshops foster increased self-esteem, improved communication skills, and enhanced emotional regulation abilities.

Coast Shelter’s Service Evolution

Coast Shelter’s social enterprise programs, Coasties on the Move and CSEspresso provide access to paid traineeships, accredited training and mentoring for unemployed young people to help them develop the skills to find and keep a job. Coasties on the Move is a removalist service that supports the central coast community move from one location to another; this may be due to a variety of challenges they have experienced including domestic and family violence and/or homelessness. CSespresso is a mobile coffee van that tours the Central Coast, setting themselves up at various locations including local community events so that the young trainees can gain important experience with real life events, community and activities.

Eurobodalla Shire Council’s Winter Soulstice – Youth Mental Health

Eurobodalla Shire Council’s Youth Committee collaborates with young people to ensure their voices are heard in the design and implementation of programs. This commitment is embedded in the Youth Action Plan and service values, facilitating consistent engagement throughout the year. Initiated by a committee member, Zahlia, The Winter SOULstice Youth Mental Health Awareness event brought together 130 young people on the shortest, darkest night of the year, symbolising unity and resilience, as well as highlighting youth mental health and suicide prevention. The night featured local, inspiring speakers, Headspace representatives, the Suicide Prevention Collaborative, local bands and acoustic artists. The atmosphere, enriched with dancing, pizza, lawn games, and chill-out spaces, was welcoming, safe, and fun, promoting help-seeking behaviours and enhancing community cohesion.

Pathfinders

Pathfinders is at the forefront of providing advocacy, support and services to disadvantaged communities. Their focus in on addressing the complex challenges and issues within the social care landscape. They facilitate foster care, out-of-home care, family referral services, supported independent living for young people as well as people with disabilities and deliver tailored services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Pathfinders plays an ongoing role in supporting families, individuals, children and young people to overcome various social issues. Pathfinders is committed to making positive changes in the lives of those we serve, through a wide range of support services and programs.

Cessnock High School’s Interact Club

To date the club has over 75 student members and has been achieving the goals of helping people within the school, within the community and within the world. So far the goals achieved have been outstanding with fundraising for a house in Cambodia, collecting cans and recycling to donate to PCYC Cessnock for memberships, collecting food and donating to homeless service in Cessnock, collecting clothes and donating to sustainable clothes projects in our area, hosting dinner for family, friends, community members.

Outstanding Youth Participation

Sonder Youth

Founded in 2017, Sonder Youth is a youth-based charity on the NSW South Coast that has impacted the lives of over 500 young people in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions. Run by young people, Sonder Youth provide holistic, preventative mental health support programs to regional youth aged 13-17. Their mission is to empower youth to create positive change and act on what’s important for themselves and their communities. They do so by combining self-development practices and social change strategies in regular workshops for 6-month periods, providing young people with the skills, resources, networks and opportunities necessary to drive change. In the last year, Sonder Youth has been focused on expanding into new regions, including the Riverina, Hunter and Southern Highlands. Their ambition is to be a statewide network of Changemakers, creating a ripple effect throughout regional NSW.

Engineers Without Borders (EWB) – Western Sydney University (WSU) Chapter

EWB (WSU Chapter) is a dynamic club dedicated to engaging young students and aspiring engineers from diverse backgrounds across New South Wales. It targets a wide demographic from schools and universities, including boys and girls from regular, marginalized, and Indigenous communities, as well as national and international students in the fields of science and engineering. They provide educational sessions on ancient Aboriginal tools and techniques, blending cultural appreciation with scientific learning. They conduct youth outreach activities, highlighting the potential of engineering within Australia and its humanitarian impact across the Asia-Pacific region. Their programs include design challenges and humanitarian engineering conferences where students aged 18-24 can engage in hands-on learning experiences. These events allow participants to design feasible prototypes based on insights from experts and researchers, promoting practical skills and innovative thinking.

Bayside Council Youth Service

Bayside Council Youth Service provides comprehensive programs to engage and support young people aged 12-25. Their unique service includes the Arncliffe Youth Centre (AYC) Program, Outreach Program, Holiday Program and other support initiatives, each designed to cater to the diverse needs of youth. Averaging 80 participants per program, they offer a mix of sports, recreation, arts, and skill development activities. Open and inclusive to all, Bayside’s service offers purpose-built spaces for young people to call their own and fosters a sense of belonging. Highlights include sustainable fashion workshops, STEM series, and fee-free skill workshops. Their strong partnerships with local youth organisations and police enhance their offerings and community impact. Particularly their collaboration for outreach, with the purpose being to engage with young people across Bayside’s large LGA, fostering connection and ensuring Council remain responsive to their evolving needs. This exemplifies effective youth participation and community partnership, making a significant impact on young people’s lives.

Pathfinders

Now in its tenth year, the Pathfinders’ Pumpkin Run is a social impact initiative that sees young people from diverse backgrounds come together to work on Pathfinders’ farm in Armidale, Tilbuster Station, where they learn agricultural skills and the importance of giving back. Hundreds of pumpkins grown and harvested by young people from Pathfinders are distributed each year to a number of social enterprise organisations across NSW, providing nourishing food relief to people and families experiencing a cost of living crisis.

Outstanding Partnership

Camden United Resilience Basketball (CURB’s): Office for Regional Youth (ORY), Camden Council, The Y NSW and Big Yellow Umbrella (BYU)

The persistent floods have profoundly affected children and young people in the Camden Local Government Area (LGA). Camden United Resilience Basketball (CURB) aimed to address the diverse needs of youth aged 10-18 that arose or worsened due to these floods. The program focused on engaging youth in their environment, symbolically sitting with them on the CURB. CURB harnessed the growing popularity of basketball, utilizing the award-winning Julia Reserve facility in Oran Park alongside its Youth Drop-In programs. This initiative combined skill development, discipline, and basketball coaching with life skills workshops. It was delivered in partnership with several agencies, including the NSW State Government’s Office for Regional Youth, Camden Council, The Y NSW, and Big Yellow Umbrella, ensuring holistic support for local youth.

Skillbuilders and Centacare Wilcannia Forbes

Skillbuilders in Dubbo has been run by LeaderLife since 2012, thanks to an incredible long term, effective partnership with Centacare Wilcannia Forbes. Skillbuilders is an early intervention program for children aged 5-12 years who are experiencing complex issues and challenging circumstances. Run during the school term, this after-school program offers a variety of activities and skills-based workshops. These activities aim to develop life skills, social and emotional intelligence, awareness and confidence in children.

RFS Water Tank Mural Project: Mountains Youth Services Team (MYST), local artists, young people from Springwood High School and Nepean Performing Arts High School

Located in the Blue Mountains, characterized by diverse landscapes and isolated rural settlements, Mountains Youth Services Team (MYST) has partnered with local artists and young people from Springwood High and Nepean performing Arts High to transform Rural Fire Service static water tanks into vibrant murals. Despite their important for emergency responses, the tanks stood out starkly against the bushland. MYST facilitated a partnership that integrates indigenous art and complementary designs into the tanks’ surroundings. This project not only beautifies the landscape but also fosters community cohesion and recovery. Young participants, including indigenous youth, led the design and painting under the guidance of local mural artists, learning valuable skills through workshops and directly contributing to the design process. The murals will symbolize resilience and environmental stewardship, aligning with MYST’s commitment to youth empowerment and community wellbeing.

Health Pro+ Program: Youth Solutions, Australian Catholic University, Western Sydney University, and TAFE NSW Macquarie Fields and TAFE NSW Campbelltown.

Youth Solutions is a drug and alcohol prevention and health promotion service working with young people aged 12 – 25 years and the broader community. Partnered with the Campbelltown Catholic Club, the Youth Solutions’ Health Pro+ program provides drug and alcohol education and support to the next generation of health and community service professionals. Tertiary host partners Australian Catholic University, Western Sydney University, and TAFE NSW Macquarie Fields and TAFE NSW Campbelltown. Complementing Health Pro+ is the It Starts with Us campaign, a youth-led initiative that puts into practice and brings to life the project’s focus on supporting youth through challenging times. This campaign, connecting to young people through social media platforms, outreach activities, promotional items and an online quiz, shares messages and practical strategies for self-care and supporting others.

The Albury Project: Yes Unlimited, Headspace Albury-Wodonga, Albury-Wodonga Mental Health, Albury City Council, the Department of Communities and Justice, Upstream Australia and James Fallon High School, Murray High School, and Albury High School

Pathfinders and Armajun Aboriginal Health Services

Pathfinders is deeply committed to enhancing the well-being of children and young people in out-of-home care (OOHC) by investing in strong partnerships and cultural understanding. In line with the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) requirements to transfer the case management of Aboriginal young people and their carers from non-Aboriginal providers to Aboriginal community-controlled OOHC agencies, Pathfinders has established a partnership with Armajun Aboriginal Health Services. Armajun is the only Aboriginal organisation offering health care services in the northern New England area in NSW and is a recognised Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO).

Gravity Youth Centre: Central Coast Council, The Y NSW and Regional Youth Support Services (RYSS)

Central Coast Council has been working in partnership with The Y NSW and Regional Youth Support Services (RYSS) through a shared office and activity space at the Gravity Youth Centre in Lake Haven, NSW. The aim of the Gravity Youth Centre partnership is to provide a safe space for young people aged 12-24 years to access youth services, programs and activities, along with developing youth led programs/events that empower young people to have a sense of pride and voice in community life. The Gravity Youth Centre has recently celebrated a 20-year anniversary of continued service to the community.

Youth Solutions

Youth Solutions is a youth drug and alcohol prevention and health promotion service for individuals aged 12–25 and the wider community. The Health Pro+ program, developed with Campbelltown Catholic Club, is supported by Australian Catholic University, Western Sydney University, and TAFE NSW Macquarie Fields and Campbelltown. It offers drug and alcohol education to future health professionals, aiming to enhance their skills and knowledge for better supporting young people facing substance and mental health issues. Complementing Health Pro+ is the It Starts with Us campaign, a youth-led initiative that addresses youth challenges through social media, outreach activities, promotional items, and online quizzes, promoting self-care and support strategies for young people.

NSW Youth Service of the Year

headspace Dubbo

headspace Dubbo is a free and confidential service that provides support for young people aged 12 to 25 in the Dubbo area. Services Offered: mental health support, physical and sexual health services, alcohol and other drug assistance and vocational support

Stepping Stone House

Established in 1989, Stepping Stone House is a for-purpose charity with the primary objective to reduce youth homelessness in Australia. Through long-term housing, and a holistic suite of evidence-based programs, Stepping Stone House target key developmental pillars of education, employment, life skills, wellbeing, community, and independence. Stepping Stone House seeks to break the cycle of intergenerational homelessness and pave a brighter future for disadvantaged young Australians.  SSH’s model of care is founded on giving residents a sense of permanency and belonging, allowing them the time necessary to heal from trauma experienced in their young lives. Upon graduating from SSH, young people are equipped to overcome the many obstacles in their lives to achieve independence. With 35 years’ experience delivering care and development to those who need it, Stepping Stone House has provided over 500 young people in the Greater Sydney area with the person-centred care they needed to thrive.

CASPA Services

CASPA Services is a prominent provider of child welfare and care services, dedicated to creating a brighter future for the children, young people, families, and individuals with disabilities under our care. They have a firm belief that every child, person, and family deserve the opportunity to lead a fulfilling and functional life. In their pursuit of enhancing the quality of life for disadvantaged individuals, they boldly challenge traditional care models and actively foster education and employment opportunities for young people. Their approach is grounded in courage, respect, commitment, and accountability, as they strive to bring a positive change in the lives of young individuals. By breaking the cycle of disadvantage, they empower them to embrace a life filled with happiness and prosperity. They are committed to fostering a culture of growth, learning, and collaboration, as they work hand-in-hand with their communities to create a more inclusive and equitable society.

Orana Support Service

Mountains Youth Services Team (MYST)

Mountains Youth Services Team (MYST) is a dynamic youth service supporting young people aged 12-24 on a long-term basis in the unique semi-regional area of the Blue Mountains in Greater Sydney. Since 1992, MYST has been deeply embedded in the local communities, employing a small yet dedicated team to develop and deliver a wide range of essential services, programs, and events. MYST collaborates extensively with local partners to expand their impact and reach more young individuals across 26 villages and 2 small towns spread along a 100km ridgeline. Despite ongoing challenges from recent natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent cost of living crisis, MYST remains steadfast in its mission to connect young people with their strengths, peers, and broader support networks to foster lasting positive changes. MYST efforts have yielded significant improvements in the wellbeing of young residents throughout the Blue Mountains, making a profound impact on the lives of those they serve.

KYUP! Project

The KYUP! Project is a dedicated youth-serving nonprofit organization with over 15 years of experience in providing gender-specific, out-of-school programs to girls in NSW. Their mission is to empower young people to elevate their standards and advocate for their safety and well-being by amplifying their voices, fostering their courage, and teaching essential life and self-defense skills, enabling them to tackle challenges with confidence. Their goals are to:

Equip youth with the skills to protect themselves from violence and its harmful effects.
Prepare youth to defend their boundaries and ensure their physical safety when necessary.
Establish a strong social-emotional foundation to support the development of healthy young adults and future leaders.
Assist youth in exploring their intersectional identities and addressing equity issues within their communities.

Coast Shelter

Coast Shelter operates five specialist homelessness services for young people aged 16-24 years old on the Central Coast. Coast Shelter supported 322 young people their youth program in the last financial year. There has been an observed increased in referrals, likely due to the after-effects of the pandemic, rental crisis, and increase in the cost of living causing family breakdowns. Since January 2023, 309 clients have been supported in youth with crisis accommodation, case management, mental health support, and employment and education. They have had numerous positive outcomes including young people transitioning to independent living, family restoration, obtaining their driver’s license through the Driver Mentor program and gaining employment through their employment program. Coast Shelter hosted a highly successful youth event this year at The Hub Erina attracting hundreds of young people offering games, giveaways, music, and promotions. An open mic competition was held, and three young people were awarded prizes for outstanding performances.

LeaderLife

LeaderLife was born in 2011 to fill a services gap in Dubbo for youth. There was an identified need to provide genuine, wrap around support services for young people missing out on the holistic supports they needed to help them move beyond the extraordinary tough circumstances they’d experienced throughout their young lives. The solution; LeaderLife codesigned a social enterprise model with young people who identified the need for holistic care and supported pathways into training, paid employment and gaining the employability skills to enter and retain mainstream employment. In December 2019, their Social Enterprise kicked off with LeaderLife leasing a rundown lime farm in Narromine, solely to help at risk 15–25-year-olds to become independent, trained up and get jobs. This model was born totally for social purpose, aiming to create lasting social change and impact young lives for the better. A 17-year-old young fella said, “this lime farm is the best thing that has ever happened to us Bronx kids.”

STARTTS – Wellbeing Program

This wellbeing program empowers marginalized girls (aged 14-17) facing disengagement from school and exhibiting challenging behaviours. STARTTS aims to reignite their passion for learning and increase retention rates. Through the program’s core values of Being BOLD, BRAVE, and BEAUTIFUL, girls develop leadership skills, self-confidence, and personal growth. BOLD cultivates a “fierce mind” to tackle challenges, BRAVE encourages girls to embrace their authentic selves, and BEAUTIFUL fosters kindness, humility, and inner strength. These values underpin their program goals:

Engagement: They reconnect girls with their academic environment, fostering active participation.
Retention: By building a supportive community, they aim to significantly reduce dropout rates.
Leadership: Through activities and mentorship, girls develop valuable leadership skills.
Self-Confidence: Positive reinforcement and targeted challenges bolster self-esteem and personal belief.
Personal Growth: They promote overall well-being and personal development, enabling girls to flourish within and beyond school walls.

Brave Foundation

RESET4Youth Program

The RESET4Youth Program assists young people to source longer term accommodation by providing wraparound case management and holistic support to assist them to retain their housing and thrive. It is an early intervention model which identifies young people at risk before they are entrenched in homelessness. They have a dedicated assertive outreach service known as YouthBeat that engages young people in community and provides them with a ‘rapid response’ to address their immediate needs. They work collaboratively with Homes NSW to source rental subsidies for young people and leverage our relationships with real estate agencies to find suitable, safe and stable long term housing options.

YOUth Speak Project

The YOUth Speak Project is a groundbreaking initiative that empowers young people aged 12 to 24 to drive community engagement and development in their local areas. Spearheaded by Ellie Tree, who was highly commended in last year’s NSW Youth Worker of the Year Award, the project has blossomed with an additional $35,000 in youth-led projects. Notable successes include a sport wellbeing gala day and a Dorrigo youth festival. Recently, the project expanded to the Nambucca Valley, where a 39% survey response rate was achieved from local youth aged 12-17 which has already led to the successful application for a $145,000 grant for a youth-designed laneway festival with the support of Council. This innovative approach, blending global best practices, showcases the powerful impact of youth voices in shaping vibrant communities.

NSW Youth Sector Volunteer of the Year

Paul Cragg

Paul Cragg is a volunteer at Stepping Stone House. He has been a valued part of our community since 2019. Paul is a special member of the village that raises the residents at Stepping Stone House. Serving as their chief Maintenance Volunteer, Paul ensures that their refuges are a safe, welcoming and fun environment for the residents. He listens to their requests, their concerns and their dreams, and makes sure that they are proud of the place they’re living in. He deeply cares for Stepping Stone House and the young people they help, and has gone above and beyond time after time, often taking Annual Leave from his day job, to make sure that the residents feel safe and welcome.

Jenny Smith

Jenny has made an outstanding impact on the lives of young people through her dedicated volunteer work with several esteemed organisations. She is a volunteer with the Smith Family iTrack program, a Kookaburra Kids program volunteer, a Girls Brigade leader, a Raise Foundation youth mentor, and a Warrior Women Foundation mentor. Her commitment to the holistic development of young people is evident through her tailored approach, listening to and incorporating the views and ideas of those she mentors into program activities. Jenny’s multifaceted volunteer work has resulted in remarkable outcomes, including improved resilience, academic success, leadership skills, and self-esteem among the young individuals she works with.

Allira Slater

For the past three years, Allira Slater has spent one day a week volunteering with Aboriginal young people who are struggling with identity, trauma, addiction, mental health and legal issues. A proud Kamilaroi woman, Allira provides a safe environment where young people feel respected and where they can ignite their healing journey. Adopting a unique, judgement-free approach to each person she helps them to reconnect with culture, kin and country through story-telling, research, family visits, and other supportive activities.

Molly Moroney

Molly is an aspiring leader who began her journey with Youth Insearch in 2018. She uses her lived experience in mental health and the knowledge gained from an intensive training program to help young people aged 12-25. Molly facilitates sessions at weekend workshops on self-esteem, trust, and communication, connecting with participants through her gentle approach. In her community, she leads weekly support groups, encouraging young people to share issues and set goals. Molly shares her story at various community events, aiming to benefit others through her experiences. As a selfless volunteer Youth Leader, she ensures those she supports feel safe and heard. Molly stands up for what is right, making her community a better place.

Roger McMillan

Roger has a passion for improving road safety by enabling young people to gain practical experience and skills to make sure that they are confident and capable drivers. For the past 7 years, Roger has volunteered with Eurobodalla Shire Council Y Drive Program as one of our volunteer mentor drivers and at Teen Safe, a safety initiative to develop safe driving skills and responsibilities for L and P plate drivers. He works one on one with young people who do not have access to resources to meet the driving hours requirement for a Provisional licence. Roger has supported 16 young people and logged approximately 700 driving hours. He also volunteers to drive the Council’s Youth Committee members who do not have transport to the monthly meetings. Roger is deeply dedicated to the youth of Eurobodalla, exemplifying a longstanding commitment to our community’s young people and their safety on our roads.

NSW Youth Worker of the Year

Anne Gillian

Anne Gillian works with young people involved in the criminal justice system at Parramatta and Children’s Courts. Anne embeds the voices of diverse young people in her work. Anne helps to make all these young people feel safe, free to express themselves, ask questions & receive help with any problem or life issue. While most young people in the Children’s Court are 12 to 18 years, Anne continues to provide support to some of our most vulnerable young people into their young adult years, for example, supporting young mothers or young people in the adult criminal justice system. Anne’s consistent help and ongoing provision of support for young people has resulted in outstanding outcomes for young people. Anne provides assistance where other services cannot be due to inadequate funding or gaps in service provision. Young people know that they can always go to Anne. Their case won’t be closed. They are valued, they are heard, they are respected, and they are seen.

Tianna Clare

Tianna has been an out of home care caseworker with Challenge Community Services since 2021. Throughout this time, she has been a strong advocate for the children she works with and has demonstrated a commitment towards seeking good outcomes for her children. She is passionate, determined and child-focused in all areas of her career. Tianna has built strong relationships with family members to ensure that family-led decision-making is at the forefront of her children’s outcomes. Over the past couple of years, Challenge have watched Tianna grow into a confident and resilient caseworker, who faces challenges head on and ensures the voices of her children are heard by all. She is a standout in the out of home care industry and a leader amongst her peers.

Tara Stevens

Tara supports young carers under 25 who care for family members or friends with disabilities, medical conditions, mental health issues, or age-related challenges. These young people often face difficulties that impact their education due to the pressures of their roles. Tara advocates for these individuals, arranging devices for studies, tutoring, driving lessons, and in-home respite to provide necessary breaks. She offers counselling and coaching as well, working closely with the young carers, their families, and external organizations to address various opinions and needs. With her skill and grace, Tara ensures that no challenge is too big for her to tackle, demonstrating genuine care for those who often prioritize others over themselves.

Darryl Dawes

Darryl from LINKS Youth Support works weekly with young people aged 12-18 from diverse, often marginalised, and low-income backgrounds. He provides frontline support for those who trust him with personal matters. He ensures every opportunity for support is explored, including crisis accommodation, employment, health services, and emergency relief like clothing, groceries, and vouchers. This dedication risks vicarious trauma, emotional fatigue, and burnout as he aims to prevent youth from falling through the cracks. Despite these challenges, he continually evaluates his practice to maintain a client-focused approach. Listening to young people’s perspectives and incorporating their feedback helps create an inclusive environment, ensuring his interventions effectively address their diverse challenges and aspirations.

Isileli Koloamatangi

Isileli Koloamatangi, known as Isi, is a dedicated youth worker with Marist180, supporting hundreds of youths over 24 years. His success in Out of Home Care stems from his ability to foster belonging and security, essential for the boys’ growth. Isi inspires them to excel academically, engage in health services, and develop life skills. His commitment remains unwavering, giving 100% every day despite challenges. This work is not just a job for Isi; it’s a profound purpose. He strives to give these children the childhood they deserve, creating memories and ensuring secure attachments. Supported by his family, Isi volunteers for special occasions, transforming celebrations into cherished moments, providing the boys with genuine family experiences.

Esky Escandor

Esky Escandor, Program Coordinator at Street University Mt Druitt, contributes significantly to youth engagement in Western Sydney. With over 10 years in the youth arts sector, Esky leverages his Blacktown-Mt Druitt upbringing to foster unity and cultural pride among local youth, particularly those facing challenges in marginalized communities. His roles as an arts program developer and drug and alcohol counsellor help him effectively engage these young people. Esky’s ‘Stop, Collaborate, Listen’ workshops use popular music to explore mental health, empowering youth to co-facilitate. Monthly Block Party events attract over 300 community members, allowing young talents to shine. Esky’s Filipino heritage and spirit of Bayanihan drive his work, and he’s been featured on Channel 10’s The Project, SBS The Feed, and more.

Alex Whymark

Alex Whymark is a nominee for the NSW Youth Worker of the Year award, with nearly seven years at Regional Youth Support Services (RYSS). She played a key role in the One3One Youth Hub, providing resilience-building programs, counselling, skills training, and outreach. As a caseworker, Alex developed the “Build Up Rise Up” program, helping young people gain confidence and practical work skills for employment or further training. Alex’s support has assisted around 139 individuals facing challenges like family violence and homelessness. She ensures young voices shape initiatives, addressing crime and antisocial behaviour, preventing marginalized youth from entering the criminal justice system, and fostering a safer, more supportive environment for vulnerable youth.

Sarah Roden

Sarah is an experienced youth worker who joined the Coast Shelter team nearly 10 years ago. She has demonstrated her ability to work all clients with dignity and respect. She is empathetic, passionate and driven to make positive change for all her clients. Sarah goes above and beyond for her clients and her outcomes of permanent housing, young people gaining employment or their license and engaging in education and social activities are evident.

Peter Clark

Peter Clark, who joined Regional Youth Support Services in 2021, has become an indispensable member of the RYSS Abilities team. While studying for a Diploma of Community Services, he supported young clients with complex needs, leveraging his photography background to create a popular social connection group. As the School Leavers Employment Support Coordinator, he developed client-centred, strengths-based programs. Peter excels in advocating for clients, establishing business relationships, and handling diverse challenges with integrity and humour. Recently, he stepped up as Team Leader, earning trust and respect for his dedication and leadership.

Sandy Small

Sandy Small is a dedicated caseworker of over 10 years for Regional Youth Support Services. Sandy exemplifies exceptional commitment and support to Child, Youth and Families 12 – 24 years under Targeted Early Intervention case work program on the Central Coast NSW. Sandy’s advocacy of young people is unwavering. She leverages her extensive knowledge of the community sector to deliver the highest quality support, ensuring that each young person she works with receives personalised and effective care. Sandy’s approach involves collaborating closely with her clients to identify their immediate needs and support them in achieving their goals. She is an amazing team player, is always up for volunteering for our annual fundraiser and support of the Domestic Violence Committee’s awareness event “Reclaim the Night”. Sandy is a strong dedicated case worker who believes every young person has rights and works hard to ensure that they have access to supports within the community they live.

Lillian (Lilly) Shamoon

Lillian (Lilly) Shamoon is a transformative force in youth work, empowering young people from refugee backgrounds. A volunteer for five years at STARTTS, she has spent the last seven years as a Senior Youth Worker, building resilience and safe spaces for trust and skill development. Addressing mental health and family issues holistically, Lilly established the first Youth Advisory Group at STARTTS, promoting youth participation and ownership. She mentors new youth workers, ensuring a pipeline of skilled professionals. Her innovative programs, like the Homework Club during lockdown and the Y Talk mental health program, foster inclusion. Beyond STARTTS, she participates in interagency meetings and serves on the Office of Sport Multicultural Advisory Committee, advocating for refugee youth. Lilly is deserving of recognition for her impact.

Gabriella Swiecki

YouthBeat connects with vulnerable young people across Southwest Sydney, making supported referrals and intervention for young people in crisis and assistance with accessing additional services and social support networks. They provide support to young people to help them address anti-social behaviour, drug and alcohol misuse, and access further supports and social networks. They foster strong relationships with police, community groups and local support services. In addition to their Mobile Outreach, they now offer low level case management to young people needing further support in achieving their personal goals, addressing barriers, strengthening relationships with family, establishing links to community and/or school.

Michael Christensen

Mike has been with CASPA Services for 5 years as a therapeutic care worker. His resilience and work ethic make him a valued member of the team and a joy to work alongside. Mike always shows dedication to providing the best Therapeutic support to young people in Intensive Therapeutic Care, with a goal of supporting and guiding each of them to achieve the best outcomes for their future.

Kirby Guest

Kirby is a competent, caring and capable Therapeutic Care Worker at CASPA Services who provides effective support and care to children and young people. She shows genuine concern and understanding of each young person’s feelings. She remains calm in challenging situations and demonstrates the ability to handle stressful circumstances after only being in the role for a short amount of time. She understands therapeutic techniques and interventions, having had a lived experience of trauma. Kirby is a team player and takes the initiative to identify tasks that need attention frequently. Kirby is highly valued by her team here at CASPA.

Ben Stevens

Ben Stevens, a Community Project Officer for Camden Council, manages the Julia Reserve Youth Centre in Oran Park. In two years, he has engaged thousands of young people aged 12 to 24, ensuring their voices drive all initiatives. Ben uses a trauma-informed approach, training youth workers in Macarthur and emphasizing youth feedback in program design. He coordinates programs like drop-in sessions, BBQs, and street art workshops, greatly increasing engagement and diversifying services. Notably, he developed the Camden United Resilience Basketball (CURB) program, combining basketball with resilience workshops. Ben also mediates between youth, police, and local businesses, helping to resolve conflicts and prevent unnecessary justice system involvement. His extensive youth work experience makes him a valuable asset to the Julia Reserve team.

NSW Emerging Youth Worker of the Year

Shamiram Yalda

Shamiram is a young professional in the role of Youth Engagement Support at MYAN NSW for 1.5 years. Growing up in Western Sydney in a close-knit Asyrian family, she assisted community members with their resettlement. Currently, she studies a double degree in Bachelor of Media and Bachelor of International Studies. Combining her education and experience with young people from migrant and refugee backgrounds, Shamiram has become a valued member at MYAN NSW. She has delivered multiple youth programs, including the Up Your Skillset program, helping young people learn valuable skills and boosting their confidence in navigating resettlement. Her dedication to youth work profoundly impacts her community, making MYAN NSW a welcoming space for all.

Takesa Frank

Takesa Frank is a proud Aboriginal woman from Yuin Country. At 20, she has a degree in Geography, majoring in Human Geography and minoring in Indigenous Studies. When not working with Sonder Youth or volunteering, she works on a blueberry farm, aiming for sustainable agriculture. Takesa is passionate about First Nations justice, protecting sacred sites, and the environment. She campaigns to protect old growth forests in NSW and is dedicated to empowering young people as a youth worker and community leader. Takesa serves as a role model in regional NSW, enjoying the growth and change she witnesses in youth connected with Sonder Youth, helping them create positive changes in their communities.

Conrad Martin

Conrad has been working with young people aged 12-25 deemed ‘at risk’ for over a year. His support has enabled them to achieve their goals and realize their potential through a strengths-based practice model, empowering participants to recognize their inner strength. This impact is evident in his work with programs like the One3One Youth Hub Employment Skills Cafe and as a support worker in the Abilities NDIS program. Conrad’s down-to-earth nature and ability to connect with young people have positively influenced many in the Central Coast community, resulting in countless positive outcomes and opportunities, directing their lives in a way they can control.

Maggie Fulcher

Maggie’s dedication, passion, and innovative approaches to youth work have made a significant impact on the lives of young people in our community. Professional Background: Maggie Fulcher has been working as a youth worker for nearly 2 years at Coast Shelter. Coast Shelter is a leading not-for-profit organisation providing specialist homelessness services and support programs on the NSW Central Coast. Maggie has worked across our 6 youth refuges showing her dedication and passion for supporting young clients ages 16-25 She holds a Social Work, has previously worked as a SSLO in a local school and also as a swimming teacher. She has continuously sought professional development opportunities to enhance her skills and knowledge in youth work and has a promising career ahead of her in the Youth Sector.

Sam Matty

Sam’s dedication empowers young migrants and refugees across Sydney’s metro area. As a youth worker, Sam plays a critical role, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to support these young people. Sam understands the unique challenges faced by migrant and refugee youth. He creates spaces where these young people feel valued and heard. This strong foundation allows Sam to mentor and guide them through the complexities of adolescence, acclimating to a new environment, and overcoming the challenges of forced migration. Sam doesn’t settle for cookie-cutter solutions. He designs engaging programs like “The Journey,” a life skills program for boys, alongside fitness workshops, educational support, and artistic and recreational activities. This diverse approach caters to individual needs and fosters a sense of belonging and community.

Vanessa Swain

Vanessa’s unwavering dedication and continuous growth in the field are truly inspiring. She leads by example through her compassion and relentless drive to not only assist the young people under her care but also strengthen the Safe Places for Children team. She has shown on numerous occasions that she is ready to go above and beyond to train and support her colleagues. She regularly studies in her own time, reading variations of self-development and leadership books that she will happily pass on to anyone who is looking to grow.

Irene Choo

Irene came from a disability background did not work with youths. Since Irene started at Safe Places, she has taken ongoing initiative to learn policies and procedures to ensure she becomes confident and has a full understanding of them e.g. completing medication logs. Irene now show’s staff within the team how to complete these, as she has become confident. Irene displays resilience from working in a range of houses and has experienced a range of incidents and behaviours with young people and she constantly show’s up with a positive attitude. Irene takes on positive constructive feedback and works on this to develop herself as a youth worker.

Juliette Herrera

Juliette embodies the essence of the NSW Emerging Youth Worker of the Year. In under three years at SECC, she has transformed the lives of over 250 young individuals facing adversity. From revitalizing a struggling tutoring program to creating a pioneering Youth Drop-In Service, her visionary leadership has redefined youth engagement in the community. Additionally, Juliette has enhanced casework, providing tailored support and advocacy for over 200 youth. Her personalized approach ensures that every client receives the guidance needed to navigate challenges. With widespread acclaim, schools seek her expertise, and students flock to her programs. Through mentoring, advocacy, and culturally inclusive initiatives, Juliette has empowered youth, fostering unity, self-esteem, and resilience across the community.

Danny Dwyer

Danny joined CASPA as Therapeutic Care Worker 1 year ago and during that time he has provided our young people with consistent support, culturally appropriate care with empathy and understanding. The young people Danny supports require the highest needs in Intensive Therapeutic Care and every day Danny brings his resilience and dedication to the role. For being very early in his career, Danny’s approach and unwavering commitment to the young people he supports deserves to be recognised.