The Andrews Labor Government will build more than 130 new homes for young people across Victoria to address youth homelessness and make sure more young Victorians have access to the support they need.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced that Beyond Housing Wodonga will receive over $15.7 million and GOTAFE Wangaratta will receive over $13.3 million to transform the lives of young people in the region.
The Youth Housing investment will see two Youth Foyers built with 40 dwellings in Wangaratta and 41 dwellings in Wodonga.
All the homes will be in highly accessible locations in walking distance of education, employment, public transport, retail and community services and feature energy efficient design to help renters keep their bills low.
The Andrews Labor Government’s overall $50 million investment will be shared between eight registered housing providers and community service organisations that will build new housing projects across Shepparton (Mooroopna), Bairnsdale, Mildura, Reservoir, South Morang and Frankston.
More than 16 per cent of people experiencing homelessness in Victoria are aged between 15 to 24 – and these vital projects will ensure young people have the safety and security of a home to help them grow and develop.
The homes will deliver a range of housing options including youth foyers that integrate housing with education, employment and other support services, or youth supported accommodation and projects focused on young Victorians leaving out of home care.
The funding is part of the Labor Government’s landmark $5.3 billion Big Housing Build. Through the Big Housing Build and other major programs, the Government is delivering more than 12,000 social and affordable new homes while creating up to 10,000 jobs every year over four years.
Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“This investment will ensure more homes are available for young people to give them the support they need to thrive as adults.”
“Everyone deserves the safety and security of a roof over their head. The stability and safety of a home will help these young Victorians to get ahead and thrive.”
“We are addressing youth homelessness and this investment ensures that commitment continues and helps to give young people a place to call home.
