Youth support providers and government agencies will work together to assess students in years 7-12 over four years through the Universal Risk Screening pilot. Students at risk of homelessness will be identified and given appropriate assistance.
The school program will also give teachers and the broader school community the additional support and resources they need to help vulnerable students.
The $4.7 million program will roll out across eight secondary schools in Albury, Penrith and Mount Druitt in Term 1, 2019:
- Albury High
- Chifley College Dunheved Campus
- Chifley College Mount Druitt Campus
- Chifley College Bidwill Campus
- Chifley College Senior Campus
- Chifley College Shalvey Campus
- James Fallon High
- Murray High
Minister for Family and Community Services and Social Housing Pru Goward said that experiencing homelessness as a young person can often lead to long-term, chronic homelessness.
"Early intervention is vital. Through this program we will work to identify young people at risk and get them the support they need to avoid becoming homeless in the first place," Ms Goward said.
"As a result of this program, we expect to see more at-risk young students with a roof over their heads, surrounded by support and staying in education."
