Young people in Hobson’s Bay and Wyndham will be able to get involved in putting on free local music and cultural events for the community, with both councils receiving new funding through the Andrews Labor Government’s 2016-18 FReeZA program. 

Hobson’s Bay City Council’s KAOS Crew will receive $57,600, and Wyndham Council’s Infinite Entertainment program will receive $72,000.

These grants will be used to run fully supervised drug, alcohol and smoke-free local events for young people in the area.

Member for Altona District Jill Hennessy welcomed the announcement, which will give participants valuable skills and experience and provide fun and free events for the community.

The FReeZA program is an innovative youth development program, designed to give young people the chance to grow industry contacts, gain practical experience and develop career opportunities.

Ms Hennessy said the funding will help engage young people in planning and staging music and cultural events such as skate competitions, music concerts and art competitions.

Both programs will provide young people with the opportunity to develop skills and experience in delivering music, art and cultural programs and events, which will be safe, supervised, affordable and inclusive.

The Andrews Labor Government has provided $7.2 million over three years for the FReeZA program, including $5.4 million in grants.

FReeZA provides funding to local government and community organisations to support young people to run fully supervised drug, alcohol and smoke-free events in their local area.

Quotes attributed to Member for Altona District Jill Hennessy

“We’re proud to support young people to organise these fun, free and safe events in Altona District and Melbourne’s West. 

“The FReeZA program gives young people the chance to build their skills and experience by organising music, art and cultural events, and the whole community benefits when these events are put on and young people are engaged in this way.” 

“We’re making Victoria the Education State – this means engaging our youth in activities that boost their social engagement and learning through practical experience, networking and building skills.”