Crime Prevention School expanded

Supporting more vulnerable boys on the Gold Coast, the Queensland Government is delivering an expanded Men of Business (MOB) Academy.

Education disengagement is a key risk factor for young people falling into a cycle of crime.

This is why Men of Business Academy has been delivering early intervention through non-mainstream schooling for boys in grades 11 and 12 which, under the Crime Prevention School programme, has been expanded to grades 7 and above.

Classes cater to a diverse range of students, including many with learning difficulties and disabilities.

With grade 7 students already in class, Men of Business Academy is stopping crime before it happens by re-engaging youth in schooling.

Men of Business Academy expansion

Men of Business Academy was created in the hope of improving the lives of as many boys as possible.

By working with families and the broader community, MOB students are taught the values of respect, community, brotherhood, education, health and how to have fun while appreciating and accepting the diversity of their peers.

Men of Business Academy founder Marco Renai said the completed facilities would allow the Academy to support more young men earlier in their education.

“We’ve spent years working with boys in Years 11 and 12, and we’ve seen how much can happen between finishing primary school and finding their way to MOB,” Mr Renai said.

“Year 7 gives us the chance to support them earlier, to understand their story, get to know their families and work out what’s getting in the way of their learning.

“This new facility means we can give more boys that opportunity. A place to build confidence, take ownership of their choices and work towards a future they’re proud of.” – Marco Renai, Men of Business Academy founder

“We’re grateful to the Queensland Government and our incredible MOB community. So many people have put their time, energy and heart into this vision, and it’s a special feeling seeing our boys here.”

The Gold Coast’s Men of Business Academy is one of four new and expanded Crime Prevention Schools being delivered across Queensland, with schools in Ipswich, Townsville and Rockhampton also on the way.

The Queensland Government is restoring safety where you live, with stronger laws – from expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time to bail reform – as well as more police, early intervention and rehabilitation.

For more information, visit the Crime Prevention Schools website.

Last updated:

19 October 2026