What has Council decided?
Council has resolved to change the way it delivers youth services with the aim of delivering an improved service for our young people. Councillors have decided to partner with a range of external providers to deliver a more targeted and flexible mix of services for our young people. This new model will provide more opportunity for them to connect with services and programs at a time and place that suits them.
This decision follows an in-depth review that highlighted the benefits of partnering with a range of specialist service providers, while retaining a leadership, coordination and planning role and ensuring the voices of our young people are paramount in the future design of these services.
Why has this decision been made?
The change in how we deliver youth services is part of a broader Service Review, which began in early 2024. The Service Review is a five-year program involving the in-depth analysis of each of our Shire services to ensure they are as effective and efficient as they can be and aligned with the goals of our Council Plan.
The review of our Youth Services identified opportunities to optimise service quality, cost-effectiveness, accessibility and overall community satisfaction. The proposed change to service delivery was presented to Council for consideration and decision on 2 September 2025.
The Service Review should not be confused with the recent organisational restructure, announced on 21 August. The organisational restructure is the result of a broad strategic review of the Shire’s internal operations. The Service Review is a deeper dive into the way we deliver specific services. Both processes support the delivery of more efficient and targeted services for our community.
What happens now?
We are now consulting with our staff, community partners, volunteers, young people and their families to determine the key considerations needed to progress the new model and what the final structure might look like.
When will the transition happen?
The transition to the new partnership model is expected to take some months to complete. We will work with the sector on a transition plan and provide regular updates as we go.
Will I still be able to access services?
Yes. Until a transition occurs, Council will continue to deliver youth services and will ensure a seamless transition to the new model. There will be no immediate change for young people, families or our partners.
What will happen to Council’s three youth hubs?
Under the new model, our three youth hubs at Rosebud, Mornington and Hastings will become busier than ever, offering a base for existing providers and other services not currently available on the Mornington Peninsula.
The new partnership model will also see more outreach and services delivered at a time and place that suits our young people. This will ensure those young people unable to access our youth hubs do not miss out on the services they need.
Where can I find updates?
Updates will be published on our website. Visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/youthservices to stay up to date.