National Youth Homelessness Matters Day

Today marks National Youth Homelessness Matters Day which aims to raise awareness amongst Australians that homelessness doesn’t discriminate by age.

Minister for Housing and Planning, Felix Ellis, said today shines an light on the vulnerability to homelessness some young people can face, particularly as they transition into adulthood.

“All young Tasmanians should have stability and security at home so they can get a great education and find a job,” Minister Ellis said.

“The risk of homelessness is real which is why our Government is investing in services that directly target the needs of young Tasmanians.

“Our Housing Strategy further commits to supporting our young people, particularly those exiting out of home care and institutional settings.

“In doing so we are providing pathways for young Tasmanians to focus on education and training while living in a stable environment, such as our Youth2Independence facilities across the State."

Over the last year the Rockliff Liberal Government built a number of new homelessness services for children and young people, including:

• Malana House Youth at Risk Centre in Launceston for children aged 12-15;

• an expanded Thyne House in Launceston for youth aged 16-24;

• Y2I homes using modular units at four sites statewide for youth aged 16-24;

• Y2I facility in Hobart for youth aged 16-24; and

• refurbishments to trial the ‘Lighthouse Project’ in Kingston, offering a homelike environment for children aged 12-15.