Dakabin State High School Students are set to benefit from improved access to health, educational and social support services with the official opening of the new $10.8 million Dakabin Youth Hub.
The Hub, co-designed with students and the school community, provides a welcoming, safe and inclusive space for students to meet, connect with health and social services when they need them, and access educational and training programs that support their long-term growth and wellbeing.
The purpose-built facility on the grounds of Dakabin State High School was developed through a partnership between Children’s Health Queensland and the Department of Education with funding from the Queensland Government.
By bringing together health, education and social services under one roof, the Hub aims to support mental wellbeing, reduce long-term health risks and empower young people to thrive.
The project included two separate but connected buildings — one for health and social services, the other offering vocational training facilities, including a commercial kitchen, café and servery area for school and community events.
There are also dedicated areas for study, training, meetings and presentations, as well as lounge spaces, a kitchen, showers and laundry facilities, to support students’ daily needs.
Children’s Health Queensland Chief Executive Frank Tracey said the Dakabin Youth Hub delivered a valuable new resource for the school that would create new opportunities and healthy futures for students.
“Children’s Health Queensland is committed to enhancing the health and wellbeing of Queensland children and young people through more connected, collaborative and accessible community hubs,” Mr Tracey said.
“The Dakabin Youth Hub reflects this commitment, meeting young people where they are with services designed around their needs in an environment where they feel safe and supported,” he said.
“Students and the school community played a key role in co-designing the vision, layout and values of the Hub. Their ideas, stories and hopes shaped every part of the facility — from the way it functions to the artwork on the wall,”
Dakabin State High School Principal Boris Croft said the Dakabin Youth Hub would bring lasting benefits to the students and the wider school community.
“The partnership between Children’s Health Queensland and Dakabin State High School is the first of its kind in Queensland and will provide important services all designed to support the wellbeing of students so they can reach their full potential,” Mr Croft said.
Children’s Health Queensland will manage the Hub and coordinate the delivery of health and social services available for Dakabin State High School students.