Secured $1.09 million in funding to establish BikeShed programs

selectability is one of regional Queensland's largest providers of mental health and suicide prevention services, supporting individuals and communities across northern, central and western Queensland for more than 40 years. As North Queensland's leading NDIS provider for mental health services, selectability employs over 800 staff and supports more than 1,500 consumers.

Several regional Queensland communities were experiencing concerning rates of youth crime and anti-social behaviour. While selectability had successfully established Bike Shed programs in Townsville and Mackay as an innovative approach to youth engagement, funding was required to expand this model to Mount Isa, Rockhampton and Cairns. The challenge was to secure funding that would enable the establishment of appropriate facilities, equipment and qualified staff to deliver this evidence-based early intervention program in communities where it was urgently needed.

Enablen worked closely with selectability to develop a comprehensive grant application for the Australian Government's Safer Communities Fund Round Six: Early Intervention grants program. Our team:

• Conducted detailed analysis of youth crime statistics and research to demonstrate clear community need;
• Mapped the BikeShed program's alignment with evidence-based approaches for youth crime prevention;
• Developed a robust project framework including detailed budgets, timelines and risk management plans;
• Articulated clear pathways between recreational activities, mental health support, and positive youth development;
• Created a compelling case for the program's potential to reduce youth offending through early intervention. 

The resulting application demonstrated how the BikeShed program would help marginalised youth develop essential life skills while promoting inclusion and building community resilience.

The grant application was successful, securing $1.09 million in funding to establish BikeShed programs across three regional Queensland communities. This funding will enable selectability to:

• Create safe, supervised spaces for youth engagement and development;
• Provide access to mental health professionals and support services;
• Deliver hands-on skills development through bike maintenance workshops;
• Facilitate group activities that build social connections and life skills;
• Connect young people with vocational training opportunities.

The expanded Bike Shed program represents a significant investment in early intervention services for at-risk youth in regional Queensland communities. Through careful alignment of community needs, evidence-based approaches, and funding priorities, Enablen helped secure vital support for this innovative program.