Fresh Footprints operates as a social enterprise and works with young people who are at risk of becoming entrenched with the justice system to equip them with the life skills and employability skills they need to follow an employment pathway and break intergenerational cycles of disadvantage.
The young people are able to access case management services through two full-time case managers, access accredited training and learn skills on the job. The program has been successful in reducing young people's contact with the justice system to almost zero in those who are retained in the program (80%).
"Yilaan.gaal Dhina"
means Fresh Footprints in the Gamilaraay language.
It relates to the opportunity for participants to choose a new path for themselves.
Day to day the Fresh Footprints team are employed through the LALC’s social enterprise, delivering work across a range of job sites throughout the region while building skills through on-the-job learning and receiving wraparound case management support.
They deliver contract work including landscaping, grounds maintenance, paving and remediation, property clean-ups, minor housing repairs, fencing, painting and general maintenance. Working alongside experienced mentors, participants build practical trade skills, learn workplace expectations, develop confidence, and gain the discipline and teamwork needed for long-term employment.
Since launching as a small pilot in August 2024, Yilaan.gaal Dhina (Fresh Footprints) has walked alongside young Aboriginal men on Gamilaroi/Gomeroi Country, offering a genuine alternative to the youth justice system. Through paid work with our social enterprise, wrap-around case management, and accredited on-the-job training, participants build real skills, real income, and real prospects.
The results speak for themselves. Two young men have transitioned into full-time employment with Walaaybaa Rangers. Participants consistently reduce their contact with police, strengthen family and community connections, and gain qualifications that open doors to further study and work. Behind every statistic is a young person choosing a different path - supported by Aboriginal staff who understand their world and believe in their potential.
Fresh Footprints is proof that when communities lead the solutions, young people thrive.
Fresh Footprints delivers quality landscaping, property maintenance, and housing repairs through our trained, supervised crew — and every job you book directly supports young people building real futures.
The easiest way to get started is through our online booking system — just click below and Brad from our team will be in touch.
Fresh Footprints is a free program for young people aged 15–19 in the Tamworth region who have had some involvement with the justice system. We offer paid casual employment, accredited training, on-the-job mentorship, and dedicated case management support — everything needed to build real skills and step into a positive future. Referrals are welcome from young people themselves, as well as parents, guardians, youth workers, caseworkers, and anyone else in a young person's corner.
