- New Rockhampton Youth Foyer to deliver 40 units with onsite support for vulnerable young Queenslanders.
- Provides 40 apartments and 24/7 support for 16 to 25-year-olds experiencing or at risk of homelessness in work, study or training.
- Part of the Crisafulli Government's commitment to deliver eight new Youth Foyers across Queensland after just two were opened in a decade.
The Crisafulli and Albanese governments are delivering more housing and support for vulnerable young people in Central Queensland, with a game-changing new Youth Foyer to be built in Rockhampton.
The Rockhampton Youth Foyer will provide 40 self-contained units with 24/7 onsite support for young people aged 16 to 25 who are experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness as long as they commit to taking part in study, training or work.
The project is one of eight new Youth Foyers being delivered across Queensland as part of the Crisafulli Government's commitment to helping more young Queenslanders have a safe place to live as a foundation to be able to live independently and build a happy, healthy life.
Wilson Architects has been appointed to design the Rockhampton Youth Foyer, with the build contract set to be award in late 2026 with construction to follow soon after.
Like the recently announced Brisbane Youth Foyer, the Rockhampton project is being delivered with funding support secured through the Australian Government's Housing Australia Future Fund Crisis and Transitional Accommodation Program.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering new Youth Foyers in Brisbane, Ipswich, Moreton Bay, the Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay, Rockhampton and Cairns, with one remaining location still to be announced, on top of existing foyers already operating in Logan, Townsville and on the Gold Coast.
Queensland Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Youth Sam O'Connor said the Rockhampton Youth Foyer would be life-changing for vulnerable young people across Central Queensland.
"Youth Foyers are a proven model that are so much more than just a roof over someone's head, they help young people build their independence and confidence to get on a pathway toward a brighter future," Minister O'Connor said.
"This is about making sure young Queenslanders who need a little extra help have a safe place to call home while they earn and learn.
"The Crisafulli Government is delivering eight new youth foyers in a single term compared to the two which were opened over the last three terms of government, because we know early intervention and stable housing changes lives.
"The existing foyers in Logan, on the Gold Coast and in Townsville have already supported more than 519 young people since 2018 and we want more young Queenslanders to benefit from this successful model.
"I also want to acknowledge the strong advocacy of local MPs Donna Kirkland and Nigel Hutton, who have fought hard to ensure vulnerable young people in Central Queensland have access to the support and opportunities they deserve."
Federal Minister for Housing Clare O'Neil said "A roof over your head can change the course of a young person's life. It means safety, stability and the chance to build a future, and that's exactly what this Youth Foyer will provide."
"For the Albanese Labor Government, this isn't just about housing. It's about giving young people the support they need to finish study, get a job and build an independent life."
Member for Rockhampton and Assistant Minister for Central Queensland Donna Kirkland said the project was a major investment in the future of the region.
"Having a safe place to call home makes all the difference for a young person trying to stay connected to education, training or work, which is why I've fought for a Rockhampton Youth Foyer to help more local young people achieve their aspirations and get on a pathway towards housing stability," Mrs Kirkland said.
Member for Keppel, Nigel Hutton said Youth Foyers were a proven model that combined housing with wraparound support.
"This investment in a Youth Foyer for our community is about more than delivering housing, it's about helping young Queenslanders reach their full potential right here in Central Queensland," Mr Hutton said.
