Even more young people will get the safety, security and dignity they deserve, thanks to a new youth housing project supporting young people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

The Andrews Labor Government has invested $5.06 million through the Youth Housing Capital Grants program to build a First Response Youth Service in South Morang and give young people the foundations and support to live their best lives.

In partnership with Hope Street Youth and Family Services and City of Whittlesea, the First Response Youth Service will include 12 bedrooms, including a family unit, emergency accommodation as well as assertive mobile outreach and intensive, holistic wrap-around case management.

Construction will begin in the coming weeks and is anticipated to be completed by mid-2024.

The $50 million Youth Housing Capital Grants will fund more than 130 new homes for young people across Victoria to tackle youth homelessness and ensure young Victorians have access to accommodation and support.

The funding has been shared between eight registered housing providers or community service organisations and will deliver ten new housing projects across Victoria.

The other projects will be located across Victoria including Werribee, Wangaratta, Wodonga, Shepparton, Bairnsdale, Mildura, Reservoir, and Frankston.

With more than 16 per cent of people experiencing homelessness in Victoria aged between 15 to 24, these vital projects will ensure young people have the safety and security of a home to help them grow and develop.

These projects will deliver a range of housing options including youth foyers that integrate housing with education, employment and other support services, or youth supported accommodation and projects focused on young Victorians leaving out of home care.

The funding is part of the Government’s landmark $5.3 billion Big Housing Build, which has already delivered 59 new homes in Whittlesea and another 76 underway.

Quote attributable to Minister for Housing Colin Brooks

“We know how critical it is to have a roof over your head when you’re in your teen years that’s why we’re supporting our young adults in Whittlesea and elsewhere with this vital program.”

Quote attributable to Member for Mill Park Lily D’Ambrosio

“It’s great to see the beginnings of the building in South Morang of a First Response Youth Service for young people at risk of homelessness.”