The site is soon going to be transformed into the new Kempsey Family Community Centre, which will provide Macleay Valley youth, young mothers and children suffering from domestic violence, homelessness and other challenges, a safe place to go.

This initiative is part of the government's commitment to supporting our community's most vulnerable, and once complete the centre will include crisis and transitional care accommodation for those who need support, short term crisis care accommodation for young people, young mothers, and women and children experiencing domestic and family violence, and holistic mental health and domestic violence support.

The centre will provide significant social, wellbeing and economic benefits to the Kempsey community, and lead to a reduction in anti-social behaviours, youth crime, youth suicides and poor outcomes.

It is also estimated up to 65 construction jobs will be created and, once operational, there will be up to 15 full-time employees and other part-time roles to provide holistic health and care support.

Our Kempsey aboriginal community have demonstrated they are strongest when they are supported to solve their own problems in their community, so a Community and Youth Centre where elders can meet, address communal challenges, and mentor their youth will be part of the centre.

It will be managed by the Diocese of Lismore with day-to-day operations looked after by the Kempsey Parish and St Agnes Care and Lifestyle.

The Australian government has committed $6.5 million to deliver this vital facility, with the NSW government providing $500,000, and the Belgrave Street land.

Kempsey Council and many other community and social support groups have also made in-kind donations.

Construction is expected to start before the end of 2021. I look forward to keeping you up-to-date on its progress.