Return to Country – A Vision for Youth Justice Reform in Far
Our Response to Youth Crime
Return to Country is a youth rehabilitation and cultural healing program we are working to establish in Far North Queensland to combat the growing youth crime crisis.
Grounded in cultural values and guided by therapeutic community principles, this model is designed to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth through healing, connection, and purpose.
This program is currently in development — and we are actively seeking:
- Funding partners
- Land or accommodation facilities
- Community collaborators
- Cultural and clinical practitioners
We believe that through collaboration, cultural leadership, and genuine care, Return to Country can change lives and break cycles — creating safer communities and stronger futures for our young people.
👇 Scroll down to explore the program model we aim to deliver.
Return to Country
A culturally grounded youth program transforming the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in Far North Queensland.
Empowering young people through cultural connection, therapeutic community, and purposeful change.
About the Program
What is Return to Country?
Return to Country is a culturally safe, residential healing and rehabilitation program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in Far North Queensland. Developed in response to rising youth crime and disconnection, the program supports young people to reconnect with culture, self, and community through a therapeutic community model grounded in Indigenous knowledge systems and holistic wellbeing.
Set on Country, Return to Country provides a structured, nurturing environment where young people can heal from trauma, discover their purpose, and build the foundations for a better future.
Our Vision
To create a strong generation of culturally connected, purpose-driven young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, who contribute positively to their families, communities, and society.
Our Approach: A Therapeutic Community on Country
Return to Country combines modern therapeutic principles with ancient cultural practices. Guided by Elders, mentors, and clinical professionals, participants live and learn in a safe and respectful community setting where healing, accountability, and personal growth are central.
We are inspired by successful models bringing together the best of both worlds: cultural reconnection and evidence-based rehabilitation.
Program Pillars
🪃 Cultural Reconnection
- Reawaken cultural and spiritual responsibilities
- Connection to Country, lore, totems, clan, and kinship
- Cultural learning through dance, art, language, and storytelling
- Guidance from Elders and community leaders
🧠 Therapeutic Recovery
- Substance misuse recovery
- Mental health and trauma-informed support
- Group therapy and one-on-one counselling
- On-site withdrawal support if needed
🛠 Skills for Life
- Life skills training (budgeting, cooking, hygiene)
- Accredited vocational education pathways
- Access to creative arts, sport, and recreational therapy
- Fitness and health coaching, including nutrition
💬 Ongoing Support
- Tailored exit plans and transitional housing options
- Up to 6 months after-care support post-program
- Family engagement, mediation, and community re-entry planning
What Makes Return to Country Unique
- 🟤 Indigenous-led and culturally governed
- 🌱 Set in a natural, peaceful bush environment
- ❤️ Love, respect, and belonging at the centre of our model
- 🧭 Youth are not treated as offenders, but as young people with potential
- 🤝 Collaborative partnerships with health, justice, education, and community sectors
Expected Outcomes
- Reduced re-offending and youth crime rates
- Stronger cultural identity and sense of belonging
- Improved mental health, wellbeing, and self-worth
- Increased school attendance, training, and employment outcomes
- Reconnected families and safer communities
- Long-term pathways to independence, purpose, and contribution
Who Is Eligible?
- Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander young people aged 12–25
- Located in or referred from Far North Queensland
- At risk of, or currently engaged with, the justice system
- Voluntary and court-referred participants accepted
Partner With Us
Return to Country is seeking:
- Government and philanthropic funding partners
- Referrals from youth justice, child protection, and community services
- Cultural mentors, Elders, and facilitators
- Corporate and community supporters
SERVICES & PROGRAMS
Our Youth Programs
Our Youth Programs
Our Youth Programs
Youth Programs at First Nations care
At First Nation Services, our youth programs are designed to create meaningful opportunities for young people to reconnect with culture, build resilience, and develop the skills they need to thrive. We understand the challenges faced by Indigenous youth, particularly those at risk of disengagement, an
Youth Programs at First Nations care
At First Nation Services, our youth programs are designed to create meaningful opportunities for young people to reconnect with culture, build resilience, and develop the skills they need to thrive. We understand the challenges faced by Indigenous youth, particularly those at risk of disengagement, and we are committed to providing culturally safe, strength-based interventions that foster personal growth and community connection.
Our programs focus on healing, empowerment, and cultural identity, ensuring that young people have access to the support, guidance, and opportunities they need to break negative cycles and build strong foundations for their future.
Connection to Country
A core element of our programs is taking young people back to Country, where they can learn from Elders, engage in traditional practices, and strengthen their sense of belonging. Time spent on Country provides a space for healing, self-discovery, and deeper understanding of cultural heritage. Activities may include:
- Cultural storytelling and knowledge-sharing with Elders
- Traditional land management and bush skills
- Yarning circles and cultural mentoring
- Learning about lore, language, and history
Holistic Support and Skill Development
We take a whole-of-community approach, ensuring that young people receive practical support tailored to their individual needs. Our programs include:
- Mentoring and leadership development to build confidence and self-determination
- Therapeutic supports such as counseling, anger management, and trauma-informed care
- Education and employment pathways, including training, apprenticeships, and volunteering
- Adventure-based learning, including outdoor activities, sport, and teamwork-building experiences
Strengthening Family and Community Connections
We believe that strong families create strong futures. Our programs include family support and engagement to ensure that young people have a stable, supportive environment to return to. We work closely with families, guardians, and communities to strengthen relationships and provide ongoing aftercare and referrals to local services.
At First Nations Care, we are passionate about creating programs that empower young people, strengthen cultural identity, and build brighter futures. Through culturally grounded, strengths-based support, we help young people rediscover their potential and walk a positive path forward.
CHILD SAFETY
Our Youth Programs
Our Youth Programs
At First Nations care we specialize in providing high-quality residential child safety services in Cairns, ensuring that vulnerable children receive the care and protection they need in a safe and supportive environment. Our residential care services are designed to offer a stable and nurturing home for children who require out-of-home ca
At First Nations care we specialize in providing high-quality residential child safety services in Cairns, ensuring that vulnerable children receive the care and protection they need in a safe and supportive environment. Our residential care services are designed to offer a stable and nurturing home for children who require out-of-home care due to safety concerns. We focus on delivering culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care that supports each child’s emotional, physical, and developmental needs. Our dedicated team works closely with families and relevant agencies to create personalized care plans, helping children heal, grow, and thrive. With a commitment to safety and well-being, First Nations Care offers residential care services that provide stability, security, and the opportunity for a brighter future for our children.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Our Youth Programs
COMMUNITY SERVICES
At First Nations care, we are committed to delivering comprehensive community services in Cairns that foster connection, support, and empowerment for individuals and families. Our services are designed to enhance social inclusion and improve the well-being of community members, particularly those from First Nations backgrounds. We offer
At First Nations care, we are committed to delivering comprehensive community services in Cairns that foster connection, support, and empowerment for individuals and families. Our services are designed to enhance social inclusion and improve the well-being of community members, particularly those from First Nations backgrounds. We offer a range of services, including family support, community engagement, advocacy, and access to essential resources. Our team works closely with local communities to address various needs, from promoting health and education to supporting individuals in times of crisis. With a focus on cultural sensitivity and respect, First Nations Care is dedicated to building stronger, more resilient communities in Cairns. Through our community services, we help individuals and families navigate challenges, connect with support networks, and achieve their goals for a better future.
BRIDGING THE GAP
OUR WHY
OUR MISSION
OUR VISION
At First Nations care, we are driven by a deep commitment to creating meaningful change and fostering equity for First Nations communities. We understand the importance of bridging the gap in health, social, and community services to ensure every individual has access to the support they deserve.
Our passion stems from the desire to empowe
At First Nations care, we are driven by a deep commitment to creating meaningful change and fostering equity for First Nations communities. We understand the importance of bridging the gap in health, social, and community services to ensure every individual has access to the support they deserve.
Our passion stems from the desire to empower Indigenous individuals and families to thrive, not just survive. We believe in creating safe, culturally respectful spaces where people can access quality services, build confidence, and achieve their goals without barriers.
By combining grassroots community engagement with industry expertise, we aim to address long-standing challenges, promote healing, and celebrate the strength and resilience of First Nations people. Every step we take is guided by respect, empowerment, and the vision of a stronger, more connected future for Indigenous communities.
OUR VISION
OUR MISSION
OUR VISION
At First Nations Care, our vision is to see empowered, thriving First Nations communities where individuals and families have access to the opportunities and support they need to lead fulfilling and independent lives.
We envision a future where cultural identity is celebrated, health and social disparities are diminished, and everyone can
At First Nations Care, our vision is to see empowered, thriving First Nations communities where individuals and families have access to the opportunities and support they need to lead fulfilling and independent lives.
We envision a future where cultural identity is celebrated, health and social disparities are diminished, and everyone can access quality care tailored to their unique needs. Through fostering meaningful connections, advocating for positive change, and delivering culturally respectful services, we strive to be a driving force in closing the gap and building a stronger, healthier future for Indigenous communities.
OUR MISSION
OUR MISSION
OUR MISSION
At First Nations care, our mission is to provide culturally respectful, person-centered services that empower First Nations individuals and families to lead meaningful, healthy, and independent lives.
We are committed to:
- Bridging the gap in access to essential health, social, and community services.
- Advocating for the rights, dignity, and w
At First Nations care, our mission is to provide culturally respectful, person-centered services that empower First Nations individuals and families to lead meaningful, healthy, and independent lives.
We are committed to:
- Bridging the gap in access to essential health, social, and community services.
- Advocating for the rights, dignity, and well-being of Indigenous people.
- Delivering high-quality support tailored to each person’s unique journey and cultural identity.
- Fostering resilience, healing, and empowerment within communities.
Through genuine partnerships and a deep respect for culture, we strive to create lasting, positive change and help shape a future where First Nations people can thrive.
