The NSW Government has committed $13.9 million to support vulnerable children and young people at risk of homelessness access support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said the government was committed to tackling youth homelessness by focussing on prevention, better support and more housing options.
“Homelessness disrupts the lives of young people, affecting their education, friendships and mental health,” Ms Cooke said.
“This isn’t just a metropolitan problem, homelessness may not be as visible in the country but we know it’s a problem and are committed to addressing it.
“We know that to break the cycle of disadvantage we need to support young people with education, training and health supports, as well as housing, to give them the best possible chance at a brighter future.”
Minister for Social Housing Pru Goward said the NSW Government has a range of programs to support children and young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
In 2016-17, more than 18,936 young people aged between 15 and 24 were helped by specialist homelessness services in NSW.
The NSW Government is investing in a range of youth homelessness services including:
- $12 million for the Premier’s Youth Initiative
- $9.9 million for the Homeless Youth Assistance Program
- $48.7 million for specialist youth homelessness services
- $4 million for Rent choice Youth
The 2017/18 Budget included a record $1.1 billion to support people experiencing homelessness and improve services for social housing tenants.
