Help for young Queenslanders at risk of homelessness

• $4.6 million package to help young people at risk of homelessness set-up or keep a home
• Aimed at those transitioning from living in care, temporary supported accommodation, the youth justice system and youth foyers

Young Queenslanders transitioning from government services to independent living have received a shot in the arm with a $4.6 million funding package announced by Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon.

The funding will help young people obtain essential goods and services to get or keep a roof over their head as they transition from living in care, the youth justice system, temporary supported accommodation and youth foyers across Queensland.

Under the scheme, young people can get help with costs up to $5,000 per household to help them transition to live independently.

Young people can get help to cover the cost of essentials like furniture, a fridge or washing machine or temporary accommodation.

Education or work needs such as a school uniform or work clothing, transport or moving costs can also be covered.

Applicants must be engaged with a support provider, government agency or Housing Service Centre.

It’s an outcome of the Palaszczuk Government’s Towards ending homelessness for young Queenslanders 2022-2027.

Quotes attributable to Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon:

“One of the biggest challenges for young people who are leaving supported care is that transition to living independently – and what we’ve heard is that it’s sometimes something as simple as furniture, moving costs or transport that can be the barrier.

“While we’re delivering our Big Build, we’re providing  immediate support to help young people and Queenslanders in general with those national cost of living pressures.

“We’ve seen some great outcomes through our youth foyers and this extra funding will be a big help for young people taking that next step in their life.”

Quotes attributable to Queensland Youth Housing Coalition executive director Lorraine Dupree:

“Given that poverty is both a causal factor of youth homelessness and an impediment to young people accessing housing and stability, financial assistance will benefit young people who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk.”

Further information: 

The funding is not available as cash, and young people must be engaged with a support provider, government agency or Housing Service Centre to access the assistance.

For more information, find your local Housing Service Centre here: www.qld.gov.au/housing-service-centres

ENDS

Media contact: Francis Dela Cruz - 0420 592 078 and Robyn Wuth - 0461 555 208