Every year, on the third Wednesday of April, Youth Homelessness Matters Day shines a light on the resilience of young people affected by or at risk of homelessness. It’s a critical time to raise awareness and advocate for stronger support systems for vulnerable youth.
Young people are overrepresented in homelessness statistics
The latest Census data reveals a confronting reality: of the 122,494 people experiencing homelessness in Australia in 2021, 17,646 (14.4%) were under the age of 12. Additionally, nearly a quarter of all individuals without stable housing were aged between 12 and 24.
At the heart of this crisis are deep-rooted systemic issues, including family breakdown, domestic violence, financial hardship, and mental health struggles.
Alarmingly, in 2023-24, almost half (47.2%) of young people seeking specialist homelessness services reported having a mental health condition.
Homelessness isn’t always what you think
A common misconception is that homelessness is always visible. However, youth homelessness often remains hidden from public view.
In the 2023-24 financial year, Lighthouse Foundation supported 182 young people, children, and babies, each facing unique and challenging living situations at the time of referral:
- 29% were living with parents but in unstable or unsafe conditions
- 24% were couch surfing
- 13% were in crisis accommodation (e.g., refuges)
- 5% were in short-term accommodation (e.g., hotels or motels)
- 5% were sleeping rough without any shelter
Nadia’s Story
As we know, homelessness isn’t just about sleeping rough.
Nadia knows this all too well. At just 15, they were forced to leave home after facing relentless shame and rejection from their loved ones about their sexuality. With nowhere stable to go, they spent weeks bouncing between friends’ couches, never knowing how long they could stay or where they’d end up next. Every night was a battle with uncertainty—physically exhausted, emotionally drained, and carrying a pain that felt too heavy to bear.
To cope, Nadia engaged in risky behaviours, searching for ways to numb the hurt. While they may have had a place to sleep, they never had what they truly needed: a home where they felt safe, supported, and accepted for who they are.
That all changed when they found Lighthouse.
For the first time, Nadia had a space where they could begin healing. They were met with warmth, understanding, and the chance to explore their sexuality without fear of judgment. But the road to healing wasn’t easy. The weight of past trauma made it difficult to trust, and at times, their pain surfaced in anger-fuelled outbursts.
But Lighthouse never gave up on them. With the unwavering support of their carers, Nadia slowly learned to let people in. They found the strength to process their trauma, build genuine connections, and believe in a future where they were more than just a survivor—they were someone with the power to create change.
Today, Nadia is doing just that. Working in a purpose-driven role supporting LGBTIQA+ youth, they’re giving back to vulnerable young people in desperate need of support, just like they once were. They know firsthand how life-changing it is to feel seen, valued, and safe—and now, they’re making sure others get that chance too.
How you can make a difference
Youth homelessness is a widespread but often unseen issue. Now, more than ever, action is needed.
Each night, thousands of young Australians face uncertainty and danger. But with your support, change is possible. Every donation to Lighthouse Foundation—no matter the size—helps provide safe housing and life-changing programs for Victoria’s most vulnerable young people.
Other ways to help:
- Support local enterprises that give back to homeless youth.
- Contact your local MPs and urge them to prioritise youth housing and homelessness in the next parliamentary term.
Need support? Reach out to these trusted organisations:
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 (A safe space to talk for young people aged 5-25)
- Headspace: 1800 650 890 (Free online, phone, and in-person mental health support for ages 12-25)
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 (Immediate support for anyone in distress)
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (Help for anyone managing mental health challenges, anytime)
- QLife: 1800 184 527 (counselling and referral service for LGBTQIA+ individuals)
- Housing Vic Emergency Contact: 1800 825 955 (available 24/7 and will connect you to the closest homelessness service or, outside of business hours, to Salvation Army Crisis Services)
