SYFS Supports Youth Homelessness Matters Day

In this difficult time of a National crisis in the housing area – inadequate amounts of affordable housing, shortage of social housing and high demand on supported accommodation services with much unmet demand, high rental costs and an inadequate number of rental properties available at the lower end of the market, it is essential that advocacy and lobbying be increased and that community awareness of these issues and the significant impact on the community is raised.

Today, was National Youth Homelessness Matters Day (YHMD)- the annual National day to raise awareness and public discussion about child and youth homelessness, challenge stereotypes and myths, and advocate for greater supports for young people experiencing homelessness. It is held every year on the third Wednesday of April.

In 2023–24, over 43,000 children and young people under the age of 25 presented alone to a homelessness service. Of these young people, almost half experienced mental ill-health and over one third experienced domestic and family violence. The majority of these young people were in need of short- or long-term accommodation and many were turned away due to a lack of capacity.

Over the years, YHMD has grown both in its role and importance in advocacy and lobbying but also into a National celebration of young people’s resilience and a day to highlight solutions to address homelessness and the necessary early intervention strategies that are needed.

This year has seen many events across the Nation to raise awareness and at SYFS we acknowledged the day by holding a number of events across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Goulburn / Queanbeyan.

We are encouraged by the involvement of young people in both attending but also assisting in preparations for some events. The young people’s enthusiasm and efforts in raising awareness about youth homelessness is inspiring, ensuring the issues and realities of young people experiencing and at risk of homelessness remain high on the public agenda.

The events held at SYFS saw over 100 young people and staff talk about the issues and there hopes and aspirations for the future. These were captured in a mural artwork and photos.

We continue to advocate for children and young people because Youth Homelessness Matters – every day!