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The Youth Retreat Centre (YRC) provides a structured, trauma-informed environment for young people who may be disengaged from school, experiencing instability, or needing short-term support to rebuild routine, confidence, and readiness for education, training, or employment. Our approach is holistic, culturally safe, and centred on the needs and goals of each young person.

Our programs are not a replacement for formal schooling. Instead, they support young people who may be disengaged, struggling, or needing a circuit-breaker to stabilise and rebuild their readiness for education, training, or employment.

Programs run in a structured, supportive, and trauma-informed environment. Each day may include:

· Life skills development (routines, communication, emotional regulation, problem-solving)

· Practical activities that build confidence and independence

· One-on-one support to identify goals, barriers, and next steps

· Group-based sessions that encourage social connection and positive peer engagement

· Individualised planning to prepare for re-engagement in school, training, or employment pathways

The focus is on stabilisation, skill-building, and helping the young person feel safe, grounded, and capable.

The program provides a wraparound, holistic approach. At the conclusion of the program, support can be extended where appropriate. This may include:

· Exploring alternative schooling options

· Supporting the young person to re-engage with their current school

· Identifying training or employment pathways

· Continuing program support if needed

Support is tailored to the young person’s needs, views, and comfort level. At YRC, we strongly encourage ongoing engagement in education, training, and employment as part of their long-term wellbeing and independence.

Yes. Parents, students, and school staff are welcome to visit and tour our facilities.

Our site includes a dedicated Youth Hub, featuring:

· A mums and bubs room

· A kitchen

· An elders room

· Multiple activity spaces

Directly opposite the Youth Hub is our Head Office and art gallery, along with outdoor areas used for programs and engagement.

Tours can be arranged by contacting our team.

We support young people aged 14-17 years, with some flexibility depending on individual circumstances and referral pathways.

Most programs run will run as 10 week blocks (based on school terms), with the option to extend support where appropriate. Duration is guided by the young person’s progress, goals, and readiness to transition back into education, training, or employment.

A typical day is structured, predictable, and supportive, and may include:

· Morning check-ins and goal-setting

· Life skills development

· Practical, hands-on activities

· Group sessions to build confidence and social connection

· One-on-one support with youth workers

· Planning for education, training, or employment pathways

The environment is calm, trauma-informed, and designed to help young people feel safe and capable.

Referrals can be made by:

· Schools

· Guidance officers

· Youth workers

· Community organisations

· Government agencies

· Parents or caregivers (depending on circumstances)

We work collaboratively with referrers to ensure suitability and clarity around goals and safety considerations.

Transport may be available depending on the young person’s location and circumstances. This is discussed during intake to determine the safest and most suitable option.

Safety and wellbeing are central to our practice. We provide:

· A trauma-informed, youth-centred environment

· Qualified youth support staff onsite

· Individualised safety planning

· Clear routines and boundaries

· Culturally safe spaces, including an elders room

· Access to additional supports where required (e.g., counselling, external services)

We prioritise emotional, cultural, and physical safety in every aspect of the program.

Safety and wellbeing are central to our practice. We provide:

· A trauma-informed, youth-centred environment

· Qualified youth support staff onsite

· Individualised safety planning

· Clear routines and boundaries

· Culturally safe spaces, including an elders room

· Access to additional supports where required (e.g., counselling, external services)

We prioritise emotional, cultural, and physical safety in every aspect of the program.

The intake process is supportive, thorough, and youth-focused, and typically includes:

1. Referral received

2. Initial contact to discuss suitability

3. A meeting or tour with the young person, family, and/or school staff

4. Completion of intake paperwork, including safety planning and consent

5. Development of an individual support plan outlining goals and next steps

We ensure the young person feels informed, comfortable, and involved throughout.