On Country teams deliver a suite of culturally grounded programs that reconnect young people with their identity, culture, Community and Country, while addressing behavioural, social and emotional challenges through strengths-based, culturally led practice. Each program is designed to meet young people where they are, whether they are seeking early support, requiring intensive intervention, or preparing for employment and training pathways.
The Cairns On Country Cultural Workshops program provides early intervention support for children and young people through cultural immersion, group activities, and mentoring. Referrals come from families, community organisations, schools and self-referrals. These workshops strengthen identity, build confidence, promote pro-social behaviour, and reconnect young people with Country and cultural practices. They also offer families and communities a culturally safe avenue to seek support before behaviours escalate.
The Intensive On Country Program is a structured, traineeship-style model that supports high-risk young people referred exclusively by Youth Justice. Participants live and learn On Country while gaining hands-on skills, education, industry training and work readiness, delivered through a culturally informed and therapeutic environment. While engaged in meaningful work and training, young people also undertake healing activities, cultural mentoring and personal development to address trauma, strengthen identity and build resilience. The goal is to stabilise behaviour, improve employability, reduce reoffending, and support young people to re-enter community as capable and confident contributors.
The Staying On Track program provides structured case management and cultural mentoring for young people aged 10–17, supporting them in detention and throughout their transition back into community. The program delivers community-based support and culturally informed guidance for young people with complex needs. All young people enter through mandatory 12-month Youth Justice referrals, ensuring case plans align with court requirements. Through tailored support, practical assistance and ongoing mentoring, young people are helped to re-engage in education and prosocial activities, meet their obligations, build emotional regulation skills, strengthen family relationships and move towards positive, sustainable life pathways.
Jabalbina acknowledges and pays respect to our Eastern Kuku Yalanji Elders past, present and emerging.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People are advised this website may contain images, video, voices, and names of people that have passed.
