National homelessness Week 4-10 August 2025
A Place to Call Home: Secure Housing Changes the Future for Young People Leaving Care This National Homelessness Week, Wesley Mission is celebrating a milestone in the fight against youth homelessness, providing life-changing housing for 26 young people across regional NSW. Thanks to support from the Community Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF), and in partnership with the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), Wesley Mission has secured 13 two-bedroom apartments specifically for young people transitioning out of Out of Home Care (OOHC). Located in Ballina, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Maclean, Port Macquarie and Taree, the properties address a critical need for stable housing among care-leavers—young adults who often face complex challenges such as homelessness, unemployment, and limited access to support networks. Wesley Mission CEO, Rev Stu Cameron, says Wesley Mission is committed to ensuring young people have the security and support they need to build a stable future. "Leaving care can be one of the most vulnerable periods in a young person's life. Secure housing lays the foundation for a successful transition to adulthood. "These homes will provide a safe environment where young people can focus on their goals, whether that's education, employment, or learning to live independently." Wesley Mission's housing model offers more than just a roof. The apartments are supported by wraparound community services including mental health care, career development and life skills training ensuring each tenant has the opportunity to thrive. "We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Department of Communities and Justice and CHIF in helping us deliver this essential housing. Together, we are providing young people with the stability and security they deserve as they begin this next chapter," says Cameron A new lease holder, Lisa, says access to long-term housing has been transformative: "I'm so grateful to Wesley Mission, DCJ and CHIF for helping me start this new chapter. Having a place to call home means I can now think about my future with hope instead of fear." The 13 apartments are managed under a long-term tenancy model that promotes stability and security, breaking the cycle of homelessness before it begins.
