Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Services Natasha Maclaren-Jones officially announced the $725,000 funding boost for the Ladder Step Up program at an event in Goulburn today. The funding from the Liberal and Nationals government will help Ladder’s successful Step Up program expand beyond the Sydney area and into regional NSW.

“This program has been operating since 2017, and I have seen first-hand the excellent results among young people who take part,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.

“I am thrilled to announce this important funding to ensure the program continues while also expanding into regional NSW, giving young people across the state who have been in care a mentor and chance to build a brighter future.

“Ladder Step Up offers support in a way that is self-empowering, with measurable positive results.”

Ladder CEO Stephanie De Campo said the funding boost would help Ladder to continue to change the lives of vulnerable young people across NSW.

“An independent evaluation of the program by Western Sydney University found that Ladder Step Up participants show significant improvements in independent living, self-efficacy, community connections, health and wellbeing, and education, training and employment.

“We look forward to working alongside the community to improve the lives of more young people in out-of-home care and expanding our partnership with the GWS GIANTS into regional NSW.

“It is a huge win for young people who are leaving OOHC in NSW.”

To find out more about the Ladder Step Up Sydney program that supports young people in Western Sydney, click here

To read a snapshot of the independent evaluation conducted by Western Sydney University, click here