The Morrison Government has partnered with the NSW Government to support young people at risk of homelessness while they complete education or training and find fulfilling work.
Federal Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said the Morrison Government provided $2.6 million to Foyer Central to give vulnerable young Australians, including those in out of home care a safe place to stay as they build the skills and confidence to live independently.
“This funding will allow Foyer Central to provide self-contained and communal areas to more than 270 at risk 18-22 year olds and ensure they have access to professionally trained staff 24 hours a day,” Minister Ruston said.
“The initiative was modelled on a globally successful program and forms part of the Morrison Government’s $57 million commitment to the Australian social impact investing market.
“Social impact investing brings together some of the sharpest minds in investment with the best and brightest in social services to find new ways of tackling social problems where existing policy interventions and service delivery are not getting the desired outcomes.”
NSW Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Alister Henskens said Foyer Central was helping young people break the cycle of disadvantage.
“This project is giving vulnerable young people the best possible start to their adult life, by combining a safe and stable home with support to access training and education,” Minister Henskens said.
“NSW is leading the nation in delivering innovative approaches that bring the private, government and non-government sectors together to deliver better outcomes in our communities.”
Federal Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Housing, Homelessness and Social and Community Housing Michael Sukkar noted how difficult relationships at home may leave young people disconnected and without a home to stay in.
“This initiative will make a real difference to the lives of our youth who are homeless or at risk of homelessness,” Minister Sukkar said.
“Foyer Central and the people in Uniting who work within this program are assisting young people every day and they deserve our thanks for the valuable work they do. They have an incredible impact on the lives of Australia’s youth.”
Foyer Central is the first in the world to be funded through a Social Benefit Bond with a strong partnership between Uniting, St George Community Housing and Social Ventures Australia.
