Supporting young people displaced due to family violence

Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home, but sometimes home is not a safe place because of family and domestic violence, relationship breakdown, or having no certainty over living arrangements. This is a particularly worrying issue for young people who become displaced and no longer have a place to call home.

It is important to be aware of how this can occur and how to support those in need. Family conflict, including aggressive behaviour and ongoing disputes, may contribute to young people prematurely leaving home. When home is no longer safe, many young people find alternative accommodation, often staying temporarily with friends.

Disengaging from education may be an early risk indicator for homelessness, as young people who experience homelessness may have been suspended or excluded from schools for behavioural reasons, and some stop attending classes as it is too difficult to concentrate on school due to family conflict or housing issues.

DVA can provide assistance for those experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness by providing referrals to localised support services, and providing information on payments and services from other Australian Government departments like Services Australia.

The DVA website provides more information on support for homelessness.

If you or a young person you know is experiencing family or domestic violence, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800respect.org.au.

Veterans and their families, including children, can access confidential counselling and 24 hour telephone support from Open Arms by calling 1800 011 046. Alternatively, visit their website for more information and resources www.openarms.gov.au.

In an emergency, call triple zero (000).