New centre gives hope to young homeless

THE first tenants have been selected for the Gold Coast’s new $12.3m youth homelessness accommodation hub.

The Gold Coast Youth Foyer, completed last month and first announced in 2018, consists of 40 self-contained studio apartments, communal spaces and offices.

All tenants will be aged between 16 and 25 years old, with 24-hour on-site supervision.

Gold Coast state MP Meagan Scanlon said: “These young adults are motivated to continue their studies and training or to get a job, and a roof over their heads combined with a support network helps this to happen.

“During these challenging times, this social housing project will give 40 young people on the Gold Coast the stability and security they need to achieve their goals and aspirations.”

Young people chosen to move into the accommodation need to show a “genuine commitment to education, training or employment” and give 25 per cent of their income to rent.

Homelessness service providers Gold Coast Youth Service Inc and Community Housing Queensland Ltd will help manage the project.

Gold Coast Youth Service Inc CEO Maria Leebeek said eight professional support staff would work on-site to provide emotional and practical support for tenants.

“Being able to provide ongoing support and stable, affordable accommodation will assist young participants to break the cycle of homelessness, achieve genuine independence and positive, hopeful futures,” she said.