Premier Steven Miles opens Townsville Youth Foyer for vulnerable teens

For 18-year-old Elma Foster having a place to call her own has been life-changing. She’s one of the first young people to be housed at a new 40-unit complex in Townsville.

Townsville Youth Foyer resident, Elma, 18, was one of the first young people to move into the foyer after she had been living in accommodation for young homeless women. Picture: Shae Beplate.

For 18-year-old Elma Foster, having a place to call her own has been life-changing.

She’s one of the first young people to be housed at the Townsville Youth Foyer, a 40-unit complex that has been opened to provide safe living spaces for vulnerable youths.

Elma had been previously staying at a shelter for homeless women.

The teen, who grew up in the foster care system, is currently undertaking a construction course and said she is enjoying living in her own unit, which she moved into three weeks ago.

“I used to be a horrible sleeper, but since moving into this place it’s made me feel safe. It’s made me feel independent, and it’s great to have support. I love it so much,” she said.

Townsville Youth Foyer opens providing homes for vulnerable young people. Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon, Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister, Mission Australia chairman Ian Hammond, State Member for Townsville Scott Stewart, Foyer foundation CEO Liz Cameron-Smith, Member for Mundingburra Les Walker, Premier Steven Miles and Foyer resident, Elma, 18. Picture: Shae Beplate.

With onsite 24/7 support from Mission Australia, young people aged between 16 and 25 are able to stay while completing study or working, while they find a permanent place to live.

Elma said her dream is to give back to those who have helped her by using her construction course skills to help the next generation of disadvantaged youths.

“Hopefully, one day, I can make a job out of it. I want to help build houses of Youth Foyers for other people as well,” she said.

Townsville Youth Foyer resident, Elma, 18, was one of the first young people to move into the foyer after she had been living in accommodation for young homeless women. Picture: Shae Beplate.

The Youth Foyer currently has 23 residents, all of who meet eligibility criteria put in place by Mission Australia.

Mission Australia chief executive Sharon Callister said the need for services and spaces like the Townsville Youth Foyer was’ huge.’

“In the last Census, there were approximately 40,000 young people aged between 12 and 14 who are homeless. In Queensland it was almost 5000 young people, so the need is great,” she said.

“The feedback that we have, these are evidence-based, amazing results transforming lives and we are so grateful that we are part of it.”

Townsville Youth Foyer opens providing homes for vulnerable young people. Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon. Picture: Shae Beplate.

The Miles Government announced earlier this year that they will build eight more youth foyers as part of its Homes for Queenslanders plan, including in Cairns, Moreton Bay and Hervey Bay.

Premier Steven Miles said with Townsville’s rapidly growing population, more housing options were needed for those struggling.

“Here at the Townsville Youth Foyer, young people will have a safe place to stay while get

ting the support they need to thrive at school, work and in life,” he said.

Townsville Youth Foyer opens providing homes for vulnerable young people. Mission Australia Chairman Ian Hammond, Member for Mundingburra Les Walker, MP Aaron Harper, Premier Steven Miles, Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister, Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon, State Member for Townsville Scott Stewart, and Foyer foundation CEO Liz Cameron-Smith. Picture: Shae Beplate.

“Experts have called for more innovative housing solutions, like youth foyers, that integrate housing, education, employment and life skills support under one roof.”

Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said projects such as the Youth Foyer ‘change young people’s lives’.

“It’s hard to do well at school or uni or hold down a job if you don’t have a safe space to call home,” she said.

“I think a lot of 16 to 25-year-olds take for granted the fact that they have a stable parent who can provide that emotional and financial support; that’s not always the case for young Queenslanders.”

Youth Foyers have already been opened in Logan and on the Gold Coast.

Anyone who needs housing assistance can contact the Townsville Housing Service Centre on 4724 8500 during business hours or call the 24/7 Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753.

Originally published as Premier Steven Miles opens Townsville Youth Foyer for vulnerable teens