New way forward in tackling youth homelessness

A suite of seven new services worth more than $4 million will provide unprecedented levels of support for young people who are homeless or enduring housing issues, acting Minister for Community Services Chris Bourke said today.

"Young people battling housing problems or homelessness will be able to count on more effective support than ever before through this new approach," Dr Bourke said.

"The ACT Government will provide more focused help to address issues at an earlier stage and better assistance to young people in need of housing or homeless assistance.

"The new model is based on wide consultation with the sector in the ACT and latest evidence."

The organisations providing the new services were chosen by a panel comprising members with extensive background in youth and children, housing and homelessness services and a highly respected independent member who oversaw the process.

The new services will be operational from March 2012 and include seven programs: Housing Support Service; Crisis Mediation Service; Emergency Accommodation Network; Friendly Landlord Service; Youth Identified Accommodation and Support Program; Mentoring, Life Skills and Social Enterprise Service; and a Parent Accommodation Support Program.

The ACT Government has undertaken extensive consultation with the community sector since December 2010 to inform development of the new model. Today's announcement marks the start of a three-month transition service to the new system which will ensure a smooth changeover for all those involved.

Dr Bourke said the programs contained an effective blend of preventative measures, family support, skills development and crisis support.

"Considerable research is being done into the causes of youth homelessness and housing issues faced by young people. The new services will give young people best chance of breaking the cycle of homelessness.

"The ACT Government appreciates the work community organisations in the ACT have put into this important area and looks forward to achieving results with this new approach."

Information on the new programs and the organisations providing them is attached.