Creating pathways to thriving futures for young Queenslanders experiencing homelessness
2 February 2024
Earlier today, the Queensland Government announced their commitment to deliver eight new Youth Foyers. This announcement was welcomed by FoyerInvest’s Queensland partners who are working together to transform the lives of young Queenslanders at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
This commitment could enable almost 3000 young Queenslanders at risk of homelessness to transition to independent, thriving futures over the next ten years. Funding is committed for three new Youth Foyers within three years, with an additional five planned for the future.
The initial projects in Cairns, Hervey Bay, and Moreton Bay aim to address the urgent needs of young people who are at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness. These Youth Foyers will offer a medium-term, comprehensive solution, combining integrated education, training, employment, and life skills support, to create pathways out of homelessness.
Quote attributable to Liz Cameron-Smith, CEO, Foyer Foundation:
“We are looking forward to working with Minister Scanlon and the Queensland Government to accelerate Youth Foyers as an evidence-based solution to youth homelessness that gets results.
“Every young person deserves a thriving future, including those who are experiencing homelessness or living in short-term crisis accommodation. Young people need more than a roof over their heads to move beyond crisis towards independent, thriving futures.
“Youth Foyers provides a safe and stable home for up to two years, integrated with tailored coaching and support to complete education opportunities, navigate employment pathways, and build fundamental life skills that many of us take for granted.
“Eight new 40-bed Youth Foyers could enable almost 3000 young Queenslanders to overcome homelessness over the course of a decade. This not only benefits each young person, it also has positive flow-on impacts for their families, communities and our economy.
“The Queensland Government’s leadership and commitment to solving youth homelessness is commendable, taking us closer to FoyerInvest’s national vision of 50 Foyers by 2030.”
Quote attributable to Rachael Holmes, Wesley Mission Queensland – Logan Youth Foyer Coordinator:
“During my nine years working at Logan Youth Foyer, I’ve witnessed the impact that safe, secure housing combined with holistic coaching and support can have on a young person who is ready to take the next step towards independence.
“We have seen increased demand year on year, and welcome the plan to build more Youth Foyers in Queensland so this opportunity can be offered to more young people. I am grateful to the Queensland Government for recognising that this model works and for their investment in young people’s futures.”
Quote attributable to Sara Parrot, Co-Chair Queensland FoyerInvest and CEO, Hand Heart Pocket
“All young Queenslanders deserve the opportunity to thrive. This funding will not only change the lives of the young people who will call these Foyers home, but it will also change the system for those who come after them.
“The FoyerInvest Consortium welcomes the announcement of funding for eight new Youth Foyers and we recognise the Queensland Government’s commitment to investing in evidence-based responses to youth homelessness.
“We recognise the expertise, compassion and commitment of the FoyerInvest Consortium members, bringing together the strengths of youth services, community housing, philanthropy and the impact investing sector to demonstrate the compelling case for investment that Foyers represent.
“Today’s announcement highlights the power of collaboration in achieving the systemic change we need for future generations of young people.”
Quote attributable to Stephen Vines, Co-Chair Queensland FoyerInvest and Queensland State Director, Mission Australia
“Mission Australia is delighted to be involved with Youth Foyers, an important project that helps shape young lives.
“We welcome the announcement for more Youth Foyers in Queensland and look forward to opening our Townsville Youth Foyer in the coming months.
“Early intervention will help these young people build essential life skills and access education or training so they can move on to a positive path towards independence and away from possible homelessness.
“One of the main reasons young people aren’t able to stay engaged in school or work is that they don’t have a safe or secure place to live.
“By providing them with this, we believe these young people will be able to stay on a path towards independence and contribute positively in their community.”
Quote attributable to Caitlyn, Current Resident, Wesley Mission Queensland’s Logan Youth Foyer:
“Foyer has given me stability, opportunity and a safe place to express myself and become a better version of myself. Since moving into the Foyer, I have been able to gain employment and a vehicle, and I have participated in volunteering opportunities. I’ve also learnt how important it is to use my own voice to advocate for other young people experiencing homelessness. Since starting my youth advocacy work I’ve realised that I would love to pursue a career in community services.
“It feels good to have an impact on the future of youth homelessness and actually be a voice for other young people. I’m proud that I can use my story to influence change and impact my community.”
