Frankston City Council is expanding youth programs across the municipality, placing young people at the centre of planning and delivery. The move follows the $750,000 upgrade of the Langwarrin Skate Park, a project shaped by youth feedback and funded in partnership with the Australian Government.
Thirteen-year-old Jakob, a regular at the skate park, said the upgraded facilities had become a key meeting place.
“I go to the park and track a few times a week now – it’s so lit!”
Youth Programs To Grow In Carrum Downs
Council has identified Carrum Downs as an area with limited youth activity options. In response, it has formed a partnership with Lyrebird Community Centre, Carrum Downs Secondary College, Victoria Police and the Frankston Social Inclusion Action Group.
More than 300 students from Carrum Downs Secondary College have already taken part in consultation, with many highlighting the need for a dedicated local “chill-out” space, similar to Council’s youth hangouts in other suburbs.
Further engagement with Flinders College students and children at community events, including the upcoming opening of the $4.95 million Sandfield Reserve Precinct Revitalisation Project, will also shape program design.
Building On Youth Engagement
All new youth programs in Frankston City are being developed in line with the Youth Action Plan 2022–26 and the Council and Wellbeing Plan 2025–29, which prioritise direct youth involvement.
Deputy Mayor Cr Steffie Conroy said Council is focused on giving young people a stronger voice.
“Every young person deserves spaces where they feel welcome and activities that inspire them to get involved. By listening directly to young people and working with our partners, we’re not only filling service gaps but also building a stronger sense of belonging.”
Federal Member for Dunkley Jodie Belyea MP said the Langwarrin Skate Park showed the benefits of youth-led planning.
“When young people are at the table, the results speak for themselves. The skate park is proof of that — designed with their ideas front and centre, and delivered through strong partnership.”
Looking Ahead
Council will extend engagement to Langwarrin in 2025, coinciding with the reopening of the redeveloped Langwarrin Community Centre. The project is part of the Building Blocks Partnership with the Victorian Government, which is investing up to $15.45 million across three projects to deliver 371 new kindergarten places and expanded family services.
Cr Michael O’Reilly said Council’s investment in youth programs was designed to benefit the whole city.
“When we invest in youth facilities and programs, we’re really investing in the future of our community. It’s about giving young people positive opportunities to connect, grow and thrive.”
