A proposed youth-centric accommodation project in Sunshine, if successful, could provide reprieve to countless young people in Brimbank who continue to be disproportionately impacted by the homelessness crisis.
Across the country, there’s a growing number of displaced youth according to the Foyer Foundation’s latest analysis which highlights the top 20 hotspots where young people are struggling most to find stable housing, land a job, and finish school.
Melbourne’s west, including Brimbank, ranks number 10 on the list.
The area, according to the charity, has the highest number of young people presenting to homelessness services for support – more than 2000 in 2023-24.
Given the region’s pressing needs, the Foyer Foundation is calling for federal government investment so that homelessness service provider, Launch Housing with partner support can build a 40-unit Education First Youth (EFY) Foyer to ensure more “young people in the area get the best chance to succeed in life”.
This accommodation would be built in Sunshine to create education opportunities with Victoria University.
With a safe roof over their heads, young people who live in an EFY Foyer will benefit from much-needed stability, according to the foundation’s co-chief executive Corin Moffa.
“Youth foyers are a proven solution, combining housing with education and employment opportunities to break the cycle of disadvantage,” she said.
Launch Housing executive director of homelessness solutions and impact Laura Mahoney said if given the funding green light, the EFY foyer will provide integrated learning opportunities and student accommodation to those most affected.
“This foyer would provide safe, secure housing, create pathways to TAFE and university education and offer one-on-one support for young people to unlock thriving, independent, futures,” she said.
A Department of Social Services spokesperson said concessional loans and grants to eligible applicants for delivery of projects like the EFY Foyer were available through Housing Australia’s National Housing Infrastructure Facility (NHIF).
“Housing Australia considers each application on merit, based on how well it meets the eligibility and assessment criteria,” the spokesperson said.
“Addressing homelessness requires long-term, systematic effort across all levels of government, the housing and homelessness support sectors and the broader community.”
