Lack of affordable housing and homelessness are significant issues for young people leaving Out of Home Care (OOHC). CREATE foundation research* found that almost 35% of young people experienced homelessness in the first 12 months after leaving out of home care. This can be due to a lack of support, employment or housing assistance. Young people leaving correctional facilities are also at an increased risk of homelessness, due to discrimination and lack of employment and affordable housing options.

Many young people are unemployed or earning low wages, which can push them into homelessness or the “hidden homelessness” of couch surfing, sleeping in cars, or in overcrowding dwellings. Those that are employed can often find themselves in casual or part-time jobs that are often poorly paid and insecure, leaving them at risk of homelessness.

Educational obstacles and limited opportunities for skills development can play a role in youth homelessness. Neglect, family breakdown, substance abuse and poor living conditions can disrupt a child’s participation in education, which leads to learning difficulties and disengagement. Life skills and social support can also be impacted by poor living conditions, leading to an absence of strong support networks that encourage a young person to thrive into adulthood.

Marginalised young people face greater discrimination and obstacles that can lead to disproportionate representation among homeless populations. This includes Australia’s indigenous community, migrant young people, and LGBTQ+ youth. Culturally appropriate and sensitive housing support for these young people is essential.