Assistant Minister for Social Security, Ageing and Women, Kate Thwaites, and Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid, today met with the FunHaus Factory in Gosford to hear firsthand about the YAAS – Young, Authentic and Social – arts and culture pilot project for local youth.
FunHaus Factory have received $538,572 through the Strong and Resilient Communities (SARC) program, which is supporting young people across Australia through community-based projects that encourage greater social participation and reduce isolation.
The project supports young people in the Central Coast to overcome isolation, encourage participation, develop personal skills and build a sense of belonging through participatory opportunities in creative and inclusive contemporary workshops, events, performances, and celebrations.
Since its launch, YAAS! has expanded across the coast, directly impacting hundreds of young people and enabling partnering across multiple schools and leading organisations. Primarily serving youth aged 12–17 whom identify as LGBTQIA+, First Nations, living with disabilities. YAAS! has fostered game changing measurable and meaningful impacts across youth confidence, community connection, and overall wellbeing.
This ongoing government support ensures that marginalised young regional people can thrive, have safe spaces, build real friendships, and gain life-long resilience skills.
Media Release from the Offices of The Hon Kate Thwaites MP, Assistant Minister for Social Security, Ageing and Women, and Dr Gordon Reid MP, Member for Robertson
