Understanding the Crisis of Homelessness Among Young People
Every night, thousands of children in Australia find themselves homeless, lacking the adult support they desperately need. Alarmingly, many of these youths are fleeing domestic violence, a situation that forces them into dangerous environments. A recent report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare highlighted that more than 13,000 children sought help from homelessness services in 2023-24, with over a third escaping family and domestic violence. Faced with such staggering numbers, it becomes clear that specialized support for these vulnerable teens is not just necessary but critical.
The Story of Lala: A Reflection of Many
At just 14 years old, Lala found herself on the streets, feeling that home was not an option. “I stayed out very late, I got into very much trouble and was on the streets,” she recalls. Like many others, Lala turned to the streets seeking a sense of community and understanding that her home life was unable to provide. Fortunately, she discovered the Amplify program, initiated by the Melbourne City Mission, which caters to teenagers aged 15 to 19 who are grappling with homelessness and domestic violence.
Why Specialized Support is Essential
Traditionally, domestic violence programs have focused on adult women and their children, largely neglecting the unique needs of minors. Many young people like Lala fall through the cracks of these existing support services. Youth homelessness organizations often lack the specific expertise required to address the multifaceted issues surrounding domestic violence. This gap in the system can lead to tragic outcomes; startling reports indicate that over 500 children who had previously received support from specialist homelessness services died between 2013 and 2023.
Empowerment Through Peer Support
A defining feature of the Amplify program is its use of peer workers—young individuals who have lived experience with family violence. “Being understood is crucial,” Lala comments, emphasizing how the peer support she received helped her find a sense of belonging. This unique approach not only provides immediate emotional solace but also allows mentors to share effective coping strategies and resources tailored for teens in crisis.
Addressing Broader Needs: Education and Mental Health
The Amplify program addresses multiple facets of a young person’s life. As noted by Melbourne City Mission’s Head of Policy, Shorna Moore, the program not only focuses on safety but also emphasizes the importance of education and mental health. In a recent survey, two-thirds of young people utilizing the service reported experiencing suicidal thoughts. Amplify offers tools and support that enable these teens to stay on track academically and personally.
The Call for More Funding and Resources
Despite the program’s success, the demand for support continues to exceed availability. The Home Time campaign, launched by Melbourne City Mission and backed by independent MPs, aims to secure 15,000 dedicated housing tenancies for young people. This initiative emphasizes the urgent need for the federal government to prioritize the housing and well-being of those aged 16-24.
The Importance of Acknowledging Young Victims
Micaela Cronin, the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commissioner, stresses that young people must be recognized as victims in their own right. This perspective, supported by findings from the Victorian Royal Commission into Family Violence, underlines the importance of adapting existing services to meet the specific needs of children and teens.
Conclusion: A Blueprint for Future Services
The evaluation of the Amplify program by RMIT’s Centre for Innovative Justice shows that targeted interventions can make a significant difference. Elena Campbell, the Associate Director, points out that rather than merely adapting existing services for adults, programs like Amplify can serve as blueprints for creating specialized support tailored to youth. By providing dedicated funding and resourcing, these initiatives can expand their reach, ensuring that all young people—regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or background—can access the help they need to reclaim their lives and futures.
