Tim PALLAS (Werribee – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Economic Growth) (09:44):

I rise to update the house and celebrate the official opening of youth accommodation in my electorate. This project has been delivered in partnership with the Melbourne City Mission under the $50 million youth housing capital grants program and is part of the Allan government’s $5.3 billion Big Housing Build. The grants program is shared by eight agencies to build 10 projects across the state, delivering important and real action in addressing youth homelessness and providing the support that they need. It is designed to house young people aged 16 to 24 years at risk of homelessness and who leave out-of-home care. The value of partnering with organisations such as Melbourne City Mission in delivering more social housing for our youth cannot be underestimated.

Often when young people are at risk of homelessness, they may have a range of complex needs that require a level of integrated support. These new studio apartments will have those onsite support facilities available along with communal living areas. Located close to the Werribee CBD, residents will importantly have easy access to public transport, educational facilities, shops and local services. It was a pleasure to meet a young resident named Paris, who said, ‘This saved my life; they gave me hope when I have nothing left,’ because nothing is more important than the safety, dignity and stability of somewhere to call home.