Giving young people the help they need in the west

The Victorian Government and MCM are joining forces to help keep young people experiencing homelessness in Werribee safe – and help them get back on their feet.

Minister for Housing Richard Wynne today visited MCM’s new Youth Refuge, made possible by a $3.35 million investment by the Victorian Government.

The West Refuge is one of two newly opened buildings – the other a $3.7 million Youth Foyer – funded by the Government and operated by MCM for young people experiencing homelessness in Werribee.

With more than 16 per cent of people experiencing homelessness in Victoria aged between 15 to 24 – and with a 26 per cent increase in youth homelessness in the City of Wyndham in the past five years – these vital projects will ensure young people have a safe and secure home and support to reach their goals.

The West Refuge will provide accommodation and support for up to 10 young people aged between 15 and 25, with highly qualified staff providing a range of support, including counselling, health services, education, and independent living skills programs.

The Youth Foyer will accommodate ten young people aged 16 to 25 years experiencing homelessness and will focus on mental health rehabilitation while also offering counselling, health and education services, and support to get the life skills they need to transition to independence.

MCM built the West Refuge in partnership with the Property Industry Foundation who brought together experts in the property sector who provided over $700K in donated services to the development. The Youth Foyer was built by Unison, a community housing association, to support young people manage the tenancies while MCM will provide case management.

The funding for these two services is in addition to the Government’s $5.3 billion Big Housing Build, which will deliver more than 12,000 new homes and is the largest single investment in social and affordable housing in Australia’s history.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing Richard Wynne

“This is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s going to give young people the chance they need to get back on their feet and turn their lives around.”

“Our record funding is making sure people who are sleeping rough or are at risk of homelessness can get a roof over their heads.”

Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“This refuge will make a real difference to young people in our community who need support, providing them with the stability to break the cycle of homelessness and thrive.”

Quote attributable to MCM CEO Vicki Sutton

“We are grateful to the Victorian Government, The Property Industry Foundation and Unison. Every detail in the design and construction of the Youth Refuge and Youth Foyer has been catered to the needs of young people to support them to move beyond their experience of homelessness and reconnect with their local community.”