Youth Justice Centres Music Programs – Supporting incarcerated youth
ACMF’s first ever music program was at a youth justice centre, and we’ve had an unwavering commitment to working with youth-at-risk ever since. We are uplifting young people who need it most by setting the bar high for what they can achieve.
The program gave me my first introduction to musical theory, recording and editing software and inspired me to continue further involvement in music upon my release. It is now over a year since my release, and I am studying audio engineering and playing the piano.
Former detainee at Frank Baxter Youth Justice Centre
According to 2023 ABS data, on any given night 4536 young people are under youth justice supervision, 76% of whom are held on remand. As a comparison, only 38% of the adult prison population is on remand.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth are incarcerated 29 times more often than their non-Indigenous peers. Furthermore, incarcerated youth disproportionately come from disadvantaged and vulnerable backgrounds. Over a third are from extremely low socioeconomic backgrounds and many have a history of mental health issues including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorders.
Our music programs within youth justice centres are a social change agent using music to tackle inequity, unlock hidden potential, and change life trajectories. We provide the chance to look at the world through different eyes and imagine and create a brighter future.
Alternative Learning Settings – supporting youth at risk of exclusion from school
ACMF has partnered with the School of Alternative Learning Settings (ALS) in Western Australia to provide music programs to students who have been excluded from school, or who are at risk of exclusion for violent and/or aggressive behaviour. We are operating in 8 of 12 ALS sites and the aim is to prepare students for a successful transition back into mainstream schooling. Our programs help re-establish students’ positive engagement and connection with education and support the ALS focus on developing students’ social skills and ability to self-regulate.
PCYC Music Programs – diversionary music programs for youth at risk
ACMF has partnered with PCYCs in Broome and Kalgoorlie for more than 20 years to provide music programs to youth post-release from Banksia Youth Justice Centre and youth at risk of incarceration. The aim of the program is to provide a safe space for self-expression and peer connection along with the joy of music.
