- Cook Labor Government prioritises building safe and inclusive communities committing baseline funding increase of nearly $30 million in the State Budget for Home Stretch WA program
- More than 700 young Western Australians currently engaging Home Stretch WA supports
- Flagship program extends supports to young people leaving care to the age of 21
The Cook Labor Government has announced a baseline funding increase of nearly $30 million over four years will be included in the State Budget for its flagship Home Stretch WA program in support of young people leaving out of home care.
The funding uplift of approximately $29.5 million through to 30 June 2030 will ensure Home Stretch WA continues to provide individualised supports and assistance for young people leaving care through to the age of 21, as they transition into early adulthood.
Demand for Home Stretch WA services have steadily increased since 2024, when the Cook Labor Government successfully completed the program's rollout State-wide.
Currently, more than 700 young Western Australians are accessing Home Stretch WA supports as they move into independence.
Home Stretch WA supports young people leaving care with access to a range of key services, including accommodation, education and training opportunities, employment and local services; as well as positive experiences of personal wellbeing and in developing important life skills.
The program was co-designed with young people with lived experience of transitioning from care, with a particular focus on the needs of young Aboriginal people and their families.
Home Stretch WA services are currently delivered by 10 Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) and three Community Service Organisations, and are available for young people leaving care regardless of where they live in Western Australia.
Find out more about the program at Home Stretch WA .
As stated by Child Protection Minister Jessica Stojkovski:
"Today's funding uplift of nearly $30 million over the next four years, marks a significant milestone for the Home Stretch WA program and demonstrates the Cook Labor Government's commitment to support young people leaving the out of home care system.
"Home Stretch WA is making a huge difference to the lives of young people, many of whom have experienced significant challenges over their young lives.
"We are continuing to see real and lasting changes for the young people engaging with Home Stretch WA supports and that is a very pleasing outcome."
