A landmark initiative to combat youth homelessness will offer hope and stability to Victorian young people transitioning out of care.

The Youth Housing First (YHF) Partnership, an Australian-first collaboration between Junction Support Services, MCM and Quantum Support Services, will provide stable housing and comprehensive support for 67 young people leaving care.

Junction Chief Operating Officer Rhianna Coleiro speaks with Prue Bentley on ABC Victoria’s Statewide Drive program about Youth Housing First.

Funded by the Department of Families, Fairness, and Housing (DFFH), the initiative adopts principles from the internationally recognised Housing First model, Advantaged Thinking, and Sustaining Tenancies principles, ensuring that young people receive stable accommodation before addressing other life challenges such as employment, education, and wellbeing.

“This initiative is a unique and much-needed approach to supporting young people leaving care,” says Megan Hanley, Junction Support Services CEO.

“By focusing on immediate and stable housing, we empower participants to begin their adult lives with confidence and independence. We’re not just providing homes; we’re offering opportunities to thrive, supported by a community of dedicated services ready to uplift and guide them on their journey.

“Junction Support Services is proud to be a partner in this unique collaboration and to be working toward improved outcomes for regional young people.”

Currently, there are no guaranteed housing pathways for young people leaving care.

With 30 per cent of young people becoming homeless immediately after leaving care, the program offers a preventative bridge for young people leaving care transitioning to autonomy and a pathway to the life of their choosing.

“For the first time in Victoria, young people leaving care have a dedicated pathway into safe, secure, and stable housing,” says MCM CEO Vicki Sutton.

“The YHF Partnership ensures that young people don’t face homelessness as they transition to adulthood but instead receive the support, they need to build their futures with confidence.”

About 1000 16- to 18-year-olds leave care each year in Victoria.

The YHF Partnership marks a significant shift in how Victoria approaches youth homelessness.

By prioritising stable housing and holistic support, we can create meaningful, long-term change.

For more information about the program, visit www.mcm.org.au/about/our-current-projects/youth-housing-first.