Rockhampton’s community has secured a pathway out of homelessness for its young people, with the Crisafulli and Albanese governments today announcing a new Youth Foyer for Central Queensland.
One in five people facing homelessness in Central Queensland are under 24, and nearly a third of those young people are living in overcrowded dwellings.
The new Youth Foyer will deliver 40 self-contained units and 24/7 onsite support for young people aged 16 to 24, funded through the Federal Government’s Housing Australia Future Fund’s Crisis and Transitional Accommodation Program and the Queensland Government.
Housing Alliance Chair Fabian Webber, local service providers and young people with lived experience championed the need for a Youth Foyer in their community, backed by Rockhampton Mayor Tony Williams and local MPs Donna Kirkland and Nigel Hutton, in a community effort that state and federal governments have now moved to deliver collaboratively.
Liz Cameron Smith, Co-CEO of the Foyer Foundation said the announcement showed what communities achieve when they speak with one voice.
“Rockhampton’s Youth Foyer is the product of a genuine community and government effort. Local advocates, housing groups, young people and leaders all played a role in making this happen. We thank the Queensland Government and the Federal Government for working together to unlock thriving futures for young people facing homelessness.”
Webber said the Youth Foyer would make a real difference for young people in Central Queensland.
“This is the kind of initiative that can genuinely change life trajectories – giving young people hope, stability and a chance to focus on their future instead of simply surviving day to day,” said Webber.
“It also reflects growing recognition that regional communities need regional solutions and deserve access to the same innovative, evidence-based responses that are available in larger metropolitan areas.”
The Foyer Foundation is committed to working alongside community partners and government to make this Youth Foyer a reality.
For more information and to arrange interviews, please call Shona McPherson
on 0410 293 844 or email [email protected]
