The Foyer Foundation congratulates Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Federal Labor party on their election victory.
Co-CEO, Liz Cameron-Smith said the Prime Minister’s renewed commitment to ensuring no one is held back and no one left is behind is welcome.
“Australian voters have clearly opted for a fairer future, where there are opportunities for all. We encourage the Albanese Government to reflect this in their second term by prioritising young people who are slipping through the cracks of our housing system.”
“Right now, there are more than 40,000 young Australians who don’t have a place to call home. With the right support at the right time, these young people can live thriving, independent futures. But we must act now.”
“The Government has a strong track record on investing in bricks and mortar – but many young people facing homelessness need more than a roof over their heads. They also need critical support services.”
Ensuring no young Australian is left behind requires leadership from our re-elected Government to invest in proven, supportive housing solutions, like Youth Foyers.
Youth Foyers provide 16 to 24-year-olds with a safe and stable home for up to two years, integrated with education, employment and life skills support, all under one roof.
With a safe roof over their heads and one-on-one support from coaches to help them achieve their goals, residents of Youth Foyers are set up to reach their potential in life. 80% exit into safe and stable housing and 65% gain secure and decent work, creating income needed to sustain independence into the future.
There are thirty-three communities seeking to build a Youth Foyer in response to urgent demand. Investing in ten would deliver outcomes for 3,500 young people over the next decade.
“The current funding system is the barrier to scaling this proven model to meet this community demand. It makes it almost impossible to secure funding for both the bricks and mortar costs, and the necessary support services at the same time. ” said Cameron-Smith.
“By finding a way to invest in proven, supportive housing solutions like Youth Foyers the Albanese Government will be one step closer to ensuring young people experiencing homelessness are not left behind.”
For more information and to arrange interviews, please call Shona McPherson on 0410 293 844 or email [email protected]
