Young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders at risk of homelessness are being supported with an Andrews Labor Government funded accommodation program designed to assist them to live independently in the community as they transition into adulthood.
Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke today visited the site of Moorrumbina Mongurnallin - Village 21 Frankston - a $1.7 million development supporting young people aged 18 to 21 at risk of homelessness.
Moorrumbina Mongurnallin will be home to six Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and two live-in mentors. It will incorporate a communal kitchen, laundry, dining area and gathering space, as well as a BBQ area, yarning circle and a basketball court. Construction is due to be finished later this year.
The Frankston site will be delivered in partnership with Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency and Kids Under Cover and will provide a home to six at-risk young people for up to three years, or until the young person's 21st year.
Based on a communal concept, Moorrumbina Mongurnallin will support activities including cooking together, maintaining shared gardens and developing essential life skills. The residents will also receive rental references and advice when they move out of the program and into the next phase of their housing journey.
As part of the project governance group consultation with the local Aboriginal community, a young local Aboriginal person who had experienced out of home care suggested the name Moorrumbina Mongurnallin, which translates to "You're loved."
Young people will have the opportunity to select their own furnishings using funding available under the Homestretch and Better Futures programs, furnishings they can take with them when they move out.
Moorrumbina Mongurnallin in Frankston follows the ongoing success of the pilot program in Preston which has significantly improved social outcomes for young people.
As stated by Minister for Housing Colin Brooks
"The Andrews Labor Government is proud to back initiatives that support young people, particularly those at-risk of homelessness, because every Victorian deserves safe and secure housing."
As stated by Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke
"We've seen firsthand the success of the program and the life-changing impact that supported independent living has on young people, and their opportunity to create positive pathways for themselves."
As stated by Kids Under Cover CEO Stephen Nash
"Everyone needs a home; it's about having your own space, stability and staying safe - and we are delivering more culturally safe housing options for First Nations young people here in Frankston in partnership with VACCO and the Labor Government."
