June 2004

Plan tackles youth homelessness head on

A series of immediate measures to tackle youth homelessness, backed by an $8.8 million State Government funding commitment, have been addressed in a Youth Homeless Action Plan released by Housing Minister Candy Broad.

Ms Broad said the initiative was about tackling the problem of homelessness head on.

The plan provides fresh opportunities for homeless young Victorians and those at risk of homelessness to put their lives on track.

‘The Plan meets the Government’s commitment to build a better future for Victoria’s young homeless people and those at risk of homelessness.

‘It delivers a series of immediate, very practical measures to support the lives of homeless and vulnerable young Victorians to set them on the road to independence.

‘It also focuses on prevention and early intervention.

‘Initiatives will develop young people’s skills so they can become independent and can fully participate in our community,’ Ms Broad said.

Funding under the Youth Homelessness Action Plan will be allocated over four years and initiatives include:

• $4.8 million for independent living skills programs for young people at risk of homelessness, especially young people leaving care;

• $2 million to assist family reconciliation and encourage young people to return home, re-establish links with close relatives and remain in education;

• $2 million for support programs targeted at young people with a long history of difficulties in education, employment or accommodation.

Smaller, complementary initiatives include:

• $40,000 to support young people who self harm;

• $40,000 to assist young mothers experiencing family violence.

Other speakers at the launch of the Youth Homeless Action Plan were Council to Homeless Persons Chief Executive Deb Tsorbaris, Melbourne Citymission Chief Executive Anne Turley, Whitelion President Glenn Manton and Tim Holborn.

Tim had first experienced homelessness at 16.

With the support of Melbourne Citymission, Tim got his life back and, at 25, is setting up an IT company.

‘People from all backgrounds can become homeless.

‘It can happen to anyone and, when it does, that person should not to be judged,’ said Tim.

An estimated 11,000 young people use youth homelessness services in Victoria each year.

Since 1999, the Government has increased its base funding for homelessness initiatives by $28.7 million, an increase of more than 40 per cent.

More than 1,700 properties have been added to Victoria’s transitional housing stock and 200 new workers introduced into the homelessness support system.