The crime prevention program has generated strong partnerships between Victoria Police, legal, youth, multicultural and indigenous agencies.

It has grown rapidly and needs new volunteers across Victoria, specifically in Horsham, Ararat, Stawell and St Arnaud.

The Crimes Act requires that when police question a young person in relation to an alleged offence, a parent or guardian must be present at that interview. Where a parent or guardian is not available, an independent person is required.

YRIPP provides trained volunteers to undertake this role.

''This program is a valuable addition to the youth justice landscape and an important service for young people, especially those who are vulnerable,'' Vivianne Dios, statewide co-ordinator said.

The program aims to divert young people, including refugee, newly arrived and indigenous young people, from progression to higher levels of the criminal justice system.

To achieve this the program links young people who have undergone police interviews to appropriate support services to assist them with any issues they may be facing and reduce their chance of offending in the future.

Funded by the State Government, YRIPP is operated by the Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMV) with Uniting Care Ballarat and other agencies.

Over the next year, the program will become available in 103 police stations across the State developing stronger links with Victoria Police, youth services and indigenous and multicultural agencies within the Community.

An information night will be held in Ararat on March 4, 2010.

Potential volunteers are encouraged to contact Margaret McDonald on (03) 9340 3777 or visit www.yripp.org.au