Vulnerable children and families in Ballina will have improved access to support with the opening of a new Community Service Centre (CSC), providing a modern and accessible hub for child protection and family services in the region.
The State Government has invested nearly $3 million in the purpose-built facility, which brings together 20 local staff from the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), including 14 child protection caseworkers, in a single location designed to strengthen service delivery and outcomes for families at risk.
Located at 191–199 River Street, the Ballina CSC will serve as a permanent base for child protection and family support services across the region, supporting frontline staff and strengthening partnerships with local organisations so families can access help closer to home.
Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said the investment would make it easier for families in the region to access critical support.
“This investment ensures local families in Ballina and surrounding communities receive the support they need, close to home,” Washington said.
“The centre will provide a safe, modern and inviting environment where our caseworkers can support children and families when they need it most.”
The new centre includes contemporary workspaces, community meeting rooms and a purpose-built family room designed to provide therapeutic spaces for children.
It will also provide local operational capacity for the statewide Joint Child Protection Response Program — a specialised multi-agency response involving DCJ, NSW Police and NSW Health that responds to cases of criminal child abuse.
The Ballina facility is the fourth new community service centre for the region, following major investment in rebuilding three sites in Lismore after the devastating 2022 floods.
Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said the new centre demonstrated the government’s commitment to strengthening frontline services in regional communities.
“The upgraded Ballina CSC reflects our commitment to regional communities and to strengthening frontline services,” Saffin said.
“Our caseworkers carry out vital work, and this new space gives them the facilities they need to support local families with dignity, cultural understanding and care. It’s a proud day for Ballina — and a major step forward for providing services in a way that is safe and respectful.”
The centre also comes as child protection caseworkers benefit from the Minns Government’s pay agreement with the Public Service Association reached in September last year. The award delivered significant salary increases, improved overtime provisions and created 100 new senior caseworker roles.
Secretary of the Department of Communities and Justice Michael Tidball said the new centre would help strengthen connections between families, staff and the local community.
“Connection to community is essential,” Tidball said.
“This new centre gives families and staff a safe, inclusive and welcoming place to work together.”
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