By ALANA MITCHELSON
LABOR has promised $1 million towards the construction of a community learning and support centre at Berwick College.
Leader of the Opposition in the Senate senator Penny Wong visited Berwick on Friday 20 May to announce the funding.
Senator Wong said the centre would “better equip” students with life skills as they transition into adulthood.
“This centre will be a great resource to young people in the community who are still learning all about how to live their lives safely and responsibly,” Senator Wong said.
Labor federal candidate for La Trobe Simon Curtis said the $1 million would help address four key issues affecting the community – respectful relationships, domestic violence, drug and alcohol use and suicide prevention.
The centre would have rooms designated for counselling and would provide education on drug and alcohol abuse and violence.
“This type of facility is long overdue. It’s crucial we help our younger community members learn the skills they need to take care of their physical and mental health, and that’s exactly what we’ll do,“ Mr Curtis said.
“The difference with this health and wellbeing program would be that its support doesn’t just stop at the end of the school day. It will support students, former students, families and the broader community as well, should we be elected.
“Berwick College’s principal Kerri Bolch has been working on this concept for quite a few years. The college is one of the region’s largest schools and is the perfect location for the centre.”
Senator Penny Wong announced the funding.
