Metropolitan Aboriginal Youth and Family Services

MAYFS is a dedicated Aboriginal service with a focus on diverting young people away from the justice system and toward improved life outcomes.

Our approach

Our restorative and family inclusive service has a strong focus on strengthening Aboriginal young people’s connection to family, community and culture.
We recognise that young people are more likely to make positive changes in their lives, if they have a say in decisions, a supportive community, and access to positive opportunities for learning and social connection.
We work with young people and their families to keep them at the centre of decisions and planning. We work closely with other agencies, including Youth Justice, SA Police, Courts, schools, non-government and community service organisations to facilitate access to a range of services and programs.

Our approach supports young people to be:

engaged in school, training and work
engaged in community activities such as arts, culture, music, sport and recreation
in healthy relationships with family and friends
not engaged in crime or risky behaviors
confident, empowered, proud and respectful — a role model to others
better connected to culture

Family-inclusive case management that involves young people and families in designing a plan that fits their needs
Flexible programming opportunities for social participation and cultural connection, including recreational, sport, language, dance, music and more
Family-centred yarning circles that engage the young person and their family to solve problems, repair harm and make positive change
Connections to education, training, skills development and employment
Family support with legal matters and justice requirements, including attendance at legal appointments, advocacy in court, and explaining and navigating the legal system
Supported referrals to other services, including mental health, domestic violence, housing, financial counselling, drug and alcohol services and more.