Youth Housing Initiative Launches in Werribee

MCM recently launched the Youth Housing Initiative (YHI) at a special ceremony at the newest MCM Housing property in Werribee. This innovative program launched by The Hon. Harriet Shing, Minister for Housing and Member for Werribee and Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas, offers a beacon of hope for young people aged 18–24 who have experienced homelessness, providing them with the stability, support, and tools they need to transition to independence.

The YHI program stands as a powerful solution to one of Victoria’s most pressing social issues. By offering up to four years of supported independent living, YHI addresses the critical need for housing while delivering wraparound services, including therapeutic care, personal development coaching, and pathways to education and employment.

Built with a $3.6 million investment from the State Government, the apartments in Werribee began welcoming new residents last week and will soon be home for 10 young people.

"Every young person deserves a safe and supportive place to call home," said MCM Chief Executive Officer, Vicki Sutton. "We are deeply committed to addressing the urgent issue of youth homelessness in our community. The Youth Housing Initiative is a bold and transformative step, providing not only high-quality homes but also the long-term, intensive wraparound support young people need to thrive and to create a positive future.

“This initiative stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision, and I thank everyone including government, philanthropists and funders who have joined us in turning this into reality."

A proven model for long-term success

With 56 tenancies being established across three housing styles—congregate, core and cluster, and shared housing—YHI is transforming lives in Werribee, Point Cook, and Footscray.

Since the program commenced there have been improved health and well-being outcomes, new education and employment pathways, skills development, holistic health, safety and legal support enabling young people to focus on building their future.

The launch event featured heartfelt reflections from Tara, a young person with experience of homelessness who offered an inspiring glimpse into how support through the YHI can have a transformative impact on young people.

For Tara, having secure housing gave her a second chance. “Having a home has gifted me back my independence, sense of security and allowed me to have a safe place to call mine. This type of accommodation and housing are fundamental in allowing young people to focus on the things that matter to them whether its employment, education or their health, these types of spaces act as a second chance which it has done for myself.”

Celebrating partnerships and resilience

The launch not only celebrates the opening of this vibrant new property in Werribee but also acknowledges the partnerships, dedication, and hard work that have made YHI a reality.

Minister for Housing Harriet Shing said, “We know that young people who have the certainty and security of a place to call home are significantly better connected to education, employment and support services.”

“The causes of youth homelessness are often really complex, but our $50 million investment in youth housing along with a range of other supports is helping more young people to connect to the opportunities they deserve.”

A vision for the future

As YHI continues to expand and evolve, its commitment to empowering vulnerable young people remains steadfast. By combining stable housing with comprehensive support services, MCM is setting a new standard for tackling youth homelessness in Victoria.

MCM would like to thank Homes Victoria, the Michael Heine Family Foundation, Two Sisters Foundation, Gandel Foundation, the Ross Trust, Brian M Davis Charitable Foundation, the Lord Mayor’s Foundation, Joe White Bequest, Samuel Nissen Foundation, the Wood Foundation, the Buxton Foundation, Dr John Singleton Bequest and the Naphtali Family Foundation for their support and commitment to the Youth Housing Initiative.

Find out more about the Youth Housing Initiative and its life-changing impact.