FAQs

By fostering positive engagement and early intervention opportunities, the Youth Hub will enhance safety and accessibility to programs for young people, along with providing a range of recreational options. In addition to the current facilities, design has commenced on improvements to facilities to include a pump track (for cycling, skateboarding, scootering and roller blading), undercover basketball court and upgrading the existing skate park with improved lighting and amenity.

In April 2021, the youth centre (the SHAK) formerly located in Casuarina was closed following the demolition of the site by the private property owner. Since then, services have been delivered on an interim basis from Sanderson Middle School.

Community consultation regarding the previous site selected at the former Casuarina Fire Station (12 Rowling Street, Casuarina) revealed challenges, including proximity to residential areas and community concerns about anti-social behaviour.

The current SHAK Youth Drop-In Centre will continue to operate from Sanderson Middle School as an interim youth hub providing pro-social activities, essential referral pathways and support to young people while the construction of the permanent facility is underway.

The new Youth Hub site has been identified as the Leanyer Recreation Park precinct, due to its separation from residential properties, compatibility with existing recreational infrastructure, proximity to public transport, and capacity to accommodate the existing design with potential for further enhancements.

Co-locating the Hub at the Leanyer Recreation Park precinct allows alignment with planned upgrades to the facilities, improving the precinct for all Northern suburbs young people and families.

The Youth Hub will provide a safe and inclusive environment for young people between the ages of 10 and 17 to come together, socialise, and access necessary support services. The programs and activities offered will be engaging and focused on developing important life skills under the guidance of trusted adult mentors. Previous consultations regarding the delivery of services and physical design of the Hub drew the following key themes, including:

Service design implications

• Offering a wide range of activities and programs to cater to all potential users.
• Having a clear and structured program of activities.
• Providing core services such as food and cooking, and safe transport.
• Establishing agreed referral pathways and partnerships with other key services for young people.
• Giving young people choice about how they engage in the Hub.
• Developing a shared code of conduct and rules of behaviour with clear escalation protocols.
• Setting clear requirements for staff and providing upskilling pathways.
• Giving service providers flexibility to deliver on agreed outcomes.
• Giving young people a say in how the Hub is run.
• Building partnerships with community and parents.

Physical design implications 

• A range of spaces to support physical separation between different cohorts.
• Modular and adaptable space that can be easily repurposed.
• Accessible design to cater to diverse needs.
• Outdoor spaces for young people to expend their energy.
• A teaching kitchen and dining space.
• Office space for sensitive discussions.
• Private spaces for staff during their breaks.
• Design and décor that signals and supports inclusiveness.
• User designed spaces such as graffiti walls and murals.
• Security features such as single points of access and internal doors to control movement.
• Airconditioning for the comfort of young people and staff.

Partnering with youth service providers and other organisations that have the experience and expertise working with young people is key, and they will be invited to submit proposals to conduct their programs at the Youth Hub through an open grant process.