It was my pleasure recently to visit Shepparton and witness some of the important work done by some local organisations.
I would like to acknowledge the inspirational work of the Caroline Chisholm Society, The Foyer and The Haven for their dedication to children, young people and families.
These organisations support vulnerable members of the community in different ways, often relying on donations from others to deliver continued service.
High rates of youth unemployment continue to plague regional areas, with Shepparton and Bendigo recently placed in the top 10 for youth unemployment in Australia, as noted in the Brotherhood of St Laurence Youth Unemployment Monitor (March this year).
It is clear we need to do more to support communities (including organisations like these) to address disadvantage, the impact on families and flow-on effects to overloaded service agencies, health sector and justice system.
I thank these organisations, their staff and volunteers for the opportunity to visit and learn about the work they do and I look forward to working with the Shepparton community and advocating on behalf of Northern Victoria.
Tania Maxwell, Member for Northern Victoria
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