When people think about homelessness, they might not realise how many different ways it can affect someone’s life. Experiencing homelessness can impact a person’s health, money situation, and sense of safety — and these effects can last even after they find stable housing.

We can look at the effects of homelessness in three main areas: health, finances, and safety. These areas are often connected, meaning that challenges in one area can lead to problems in another.

Disadvantage and homelessness have a direct impact on an individual’s mental and physical health.  Understanding these challenges is crucial for creating better support systems and fostering empathy in our communities.

Homelessness doesn’t just mean not having a place to live; it can deeply affect a person’s mental health in many ways. When someone doesn’t know where they’ll sleep, what they’ll eat, or if they’ll be safe, this constant stress can lead to serious mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. ​

For those who already have mental health issues, lacking stable housing can make it harder to get the help they need, which might worsen their condition. ​Converge

Experiences of trauma, such as being a victim of crime, are also more common among people without stable housing, further impacting their mental well-being. ​

Social isolation, or feeling alone and without support, is another challenge that can severely affect mental health.​

Trauma can have neurological impacts, altering the functioning of the brain – National Library of Medicine

• A study found that between 91% and 100% of people experiencing homelessness had experienced at least one major trauma in their lives, whereas 57% of the general Australian population reported one major traumatic event. Sacred Heart Mission
• Another study reported that 98% of people who experienced homelessness had experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime, with the mean number of traumas per person being 11.8. ​Sage Journal

When we feel sick or get hurt, we usually go to a doctor, take medicine, or get help from another health professional. But what happens if you can’t access these services? For people experiencing homelessness, this is a real challenge. Minor health problems can quickly turn into serious issues. Chronic health conditions like diabetes may go untreated, and mental health struggles can sometimes lead to physical health problems too.

Hygiene and Health – We all know how important it is to shower regularly and keep our clothes clean. But if you don’t have access to showers or laundry facilities, bacteria can build up. This can cause skin irritations, infected wounds, and poor dental hygiene, which can also lead to infections. These health problems can make daily life even harder.

The Impact on Life Expectancy – Did you know that homelessness can actually make you age faster? Research shows that people experiencing homelessness in Australia have a life expectancy of just 44.5 years, compared to 77 years for the average Australian. That’s more than 30 years shorter! This is because the physical and mental stress of homelessness takes a huge toll on the body.

The Importance of Healthcare Access – Without regular access to doctors or medication, small health issues can get worse, leading to hospital stays that put extra strain on the healthcare system.

Homelessness and financial hardship often go hand in hand. Sometimes, money problems can lead to homelessness — but once someone falls behind, it can be really hard to catch up. The full impact might not be obvious until later in life.

Struggles with Work and Savings – Health issues or getting older can make working difficult, and many people may not have enough savings or superannuation to retire comfortably. This leaves them relying on government support, such as the Age Pension, which is currently below the recommended amount for a decent standard of living. This can keep people in a cycle of disadvantage, increasing the risk of falling back into homelessness.

Breaking the Cycle

When people don’t have enough financial support, it can lead to difficult choices — like choosing between food, rent, or medical care. Understanding how financial struggles affect different groups can help us find ways to support everyone better. By creating fairer systems and more support for those in need, we can help reduce the long-term impacts of homelessness.

It’s a common misconception that individuals experiencing homelessness are more likely to commit crimes. In reality, they are often victims rather than perpetrators, especially those sleeping rough. They may face:​

• Physical violence
  • Studies have shown that homeless individuals are 13 times more likely to experience violence compared to the general population. ​Australian institute of Criminology
• Sexual violence
  • Nearly one-tenth of homeless individuals reported experiencing sexual assault within a year. Australian institute of Criminology
• Theft of belongings
  • They are 47 times more likely to be victims of theft than those in stable housing. Australian institute of Criminology
• Harassment
  • Many face ongoing harassment, further impacting their well-being. ​

These crimes can be committed by others experiencing homelessness or by members of the public. Such traumatic experiences can severely affect both physical and mental health.​

Certain groups are disproportionately affected by crime:​

• First Nations Australians experience higher rates of violent victimization than the general population. Australian Human Rights Commission
• LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those with disabilities, report higher rates of crime and victimisation. ​Australian Human Rights Commission

According to the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI), as of the 2016 Census, Indigenous Australians were 10 times more likely to experience homelessness compared to non-Indigenous Australians.

The “Private Lives 3” study by La Trobe University found that 34.3% of trans men, 33.8% of non-binary participants, and 31.9% of trans women reported having ever experienced homelessness. ​

• Homelessness affects many areas of life: Being homeless isn’t just about not having a home. It also impacts a person’s health, their ability to earn money, and even their safety, creating a tough cycle that is difficult to escape.
• Health, money, and safety: When someone is experiencing homelessness, it can make their health worse, make it harder to manage money, and leave them more at risk of being hurt or taken advantage of. This can all make things even harder for them.
• Mental health: Experiencing homelessness can affect a person’s mental health, especially because of the stress, trauma, and loneliness that can come with it. When people don’t feel safe or supported, it can make them feel even more isolated or worried.
• Physical health: It’s harder for people who don’t have a stable home to stay healthy. Without access to healthcare and clean places to wash, they might get sick more often, making it even harder to get better.
• Risk of harm: People who are experiencing homelessness are more likely to be hurt or treated badly by others. This can make the trauma they experience even worse, making it harder to feel safe or to trust others.
• Difficult decisions: When a person doesn’t have a home, things such as where to sleep or what to eat can become really hard to figure out. Something that might seem simple to other people can feel like a big challenge to the person experiencing homelessness.
• Long-lasting effects: Even if someone gets a home again, the impact of homelessness can still affect them for a long time. The struggles with mental health, physical health, and finances can take time to heal.
• Support from places such as The Wellness Place: The Wellness Place run by Sacred Heart Mission is an important service that helps people who are experiencing homelessness get the medical care they need. Without places like this, it would be even harder for people to stay healthy and get the help they need to support themselves.

• Chronic Health Conditions — health problems that last a long time and need ongoing care, like asthma or diabetes.
• Pneumonia — a serious illness that makes it hard to breathe because the lungs are infected.
• Preventative Health Care — medical care that helps stop health problems before they happen, such as regular check-ups or vaccines.
• Transient — moving from place to place without a permanent home.
• Disadvantage — when someone doesn’t have the same chances as others to be healthy, safe, or successful.
• Underlying — something that is not obvious at first but is causing other problems (e.g., an underlying health issue).
• Tenancy — the right to live in a house or apartment under a rental agreement.
• Optometrist — an eye doctor who helps people see better by testing their eyes and giving them glasses or contact lenses.
• Wellbeing Hub — a place where people can go to get support for their health and mental wellbeing.
• Evaluation — checking something carefully to see how well it is working or what needs to be improved.
• Collaborative — working together with others to reach a goal.
• Holistic — looking at the whole person — their physical, mental, and emotional health — instead of just one part.
• Quality of Life — how good or comfortable someone’s life is, including their health, happiness, and safety.
• Nutrition Advice — guidance on eating healthy foods to keep your body strong and healthy.
• Surviving to Thriving — going from just getting by each day to feeling healthy, happy, and stable.
• Impact — the effect or change that happens because of something.
• Access — being able to get or use something, like health care or support services.
• Support Services — organisations or people that help with things like health, housing, or finances.
• Case Manager — a person who helps someone plan and manage the support they need.
• Mental Health — how someone feels emotionally and mentally — it affects how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.

• Recovery involves multiple steps and challenges.
• Imagine climbing a mountain. Each step takes effort, but with the right tools and help, you can reach the top.
  • Can you think of another analogy which describes a journey with many steps?

• What STEPS do YOU think the journey out of homelessness would include?
• Compare to these three steps:
  • Securing housing: applying for housing, overcoming barriers (long waitlists, lack of documents).
  • Building stability: learning life skills, finding work, managing money.
  • Reconnecting with society: rebuilding relationships, joining community activities.

Fill in Journey from homelessness Map Worksheet

For each stage brainstorm the following:

• Steps
• Challenges
• Support systems

Example Journey Map answer

1. Securing Housing
   • Actions: Apply for housing programs, connect with a social worker, secure rental assistance.
   • Challenges: Long waiting lists, lack of documents, emotional impacts of rejection
   • Support: Sacred Heart Mission’s “Housing First” program, government housing assistance, emergency accommodation.
2. Building Stability – Life skills, employment, education
   • Actions: Learn to budget, attend vocational training, apply for jobs.
   • Challenges: Gaps in employment history, limited access to transport, anxiety about rejoining the workforce.
   • Support: Job training programs, budgeting workshops, public transport vouchers.
3. Reconnecting with Society – Community, friends, family, healing
   • Actions: Join a support group, volunteer, reconnect with family and friends.
   • Challenges: Overcoming stigma, rebuilding trust, feeling isolated.
   • Support: Peer support networks like counselling services, community events.

• Homelessness has many forms – it’s not just sleeping outside; it can also include staying in shelters, temporary housing, or moving between friends’ homes.
• Finding a safe and stable home is the first step in building a stable future. Programs like Housing First focus on providing housing without requiring conditions like a job or sobriety first.
• Challenges don’t end once someone finds housing – they may need support adjusting to a new place, learning to manage money, and rebuilding relationships.
• Community support is important – it helps people feel a sense of belonging and can provide services such as job training, mental health support, and peer support groups.
• Homelessness affects everyone – it puts pressure on healthcare, employment, and justice systems. When homelessness is reduced, society benefits as a whole.

Reflection Questions:

• What is one thing you learned today that you didn’t know before?
• How can communities help people transition out of homelessness?
• What are some of the challenges people may face after finding housing?

• Homelessness – Not having a stable or safe place to live. This can mean staying in shelters, with friends or family temporarily, or in places not meant for living.
• Transitional Housing – A temporary place to stay that includes support to help people find long-term housing.
• Affordable Housing – Homes that people on lower incomes can afford, often with government or services support.
• Support Services – Programs that help people with things like finding a job, education, health care, and managing money.
• Mental Health – A person’s thoughts, feelings, and emotions, which affect how they handle life’s challenges.
• Financial Literacy – Learning how to manage money, including budgeting and saving.
• Employment Readiness – Learning the skills and gaining the confidence to start or return to work.
• Social Connections – Building and maintaining relationships with friends, family, and the community.
• Case Management – When a worker helps someone make a plan to get the support they need to achieve stability.
• Stigma – Negative attitudes or unfair treatment that people may face because of their situation.
• Resilience – The ability to keep going and adapt, even when facing challenges.
• Community Support – Help from local groups, support services, and programs that assist people in rebuilding their lives.
• Life Skills Training – Learning everyday skills like cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and time management to live independently.
• Recovery Journey – The ongoing process of finding stability, setting goals, and working towards a positive future after experiencing homelessness.
• Tenant Rights – The rules that protect people renting a home, such as making sure they are treated fairly and not being forced to leave without reason.
• Well–being – Feeling healthy, safe, and supported in life, both physically and emotionally.
• Peer Support – Encouragement and advice from people who have been through similar experiences.
• Advocacy – Speaking up for people’s rights and making sure their needs are heard and respected.
• Crisis Accommodation – A safe, short-term place to stay for people who suddenly find themselves without a home.
• Independence – Being able to take care of yourself and make your own decisions with confidence.

Brainstorm Your Event – Some ideas to get started:

• Art exhibition – create artwork about kindness, home, and community.
• Casual clothes day – bring a gold coin donation to dress casually.
• Short video contest  – create short film clips to teach others about homelessness.
• Bake sale  – sell homemade treats to raise money for a local charity.

Think about:

• What kind of event would be fun and interesting for students at your school?
• How will your event help people understand more about homelessness?

What Do You Need? – Make a list of everything required to run your event.

Think about:

• Permissions – Do you need approval from teachers or the Principal
• Event Space – Where will the event happen? (E.g., gym, classroom, outside)
• Promotion – How will you tell students about the event? (E.g., posters, social media, announcements)
• Tickets or Donations – Will people need to pay to join or donate money?

Promote Your Event – How will you get other students to take part?

You could:

• Make posters to put around the school
• Ask for an announcement in assembly.
• Use the school website or social media to spread the word.
• Get friends and teachers involved!

Raising Awareness – Your event should help people learn about homelessness.

Think about:

• How can you teach others about homelessness in a respectful way?
• Could you include facts, stories, or guest speakers?
• Where will the money you raise go? (E.g., social impact program / organisation, emergency housing –meal support program / organisation)

Firstly, research your local council members (MP – Member of Parliament) to address your email correctly.

1. Choose a focus – What problem related to homelessness do you want to address? (e.g., housing, access to food, support services).
2. Decide on an action – What would you like your council member to do? (e.g., increase funding, support shelters, improve services).
3. Write your email – Use clear, respectful, and persuasive and humanising language.

• Greeting: Start with “Dear [Council Member’s Name],”
• Introduction: Explain who you are and why you are writing.
• Main Message: Describe the issue and why it matters. Share a fact or a real-life example to make your point stronger.
• Call to Action: Ask for a specific change or improvement.
• Closing: Thank them for their time and sign off with your name.

1. What is Advocacy?

• • Definition: Advocacy is using your voice to support or speak up for someone or something that needs help. It’s about making a positive difference by standing up for others.
  • Key Roles of Advocates:
    • They work to create change in their community.
    • They bring attention to issues that may not be well-known.
    • They listen, respect others, and help find solutions to improve people’s lives.

2. What Makes a Good Advocate?

• • Advocates are people who speak up for others in various situations.
  • Examples of advocacy:
    • Speaking out when someone is left out of a group.
    • Raising awareness about issues like littering at school.
    • Helping a friend who feels unsafe.

3. Advocacy and Its Impact

• • Advocacy can lead to positive change by raising awareness of important issues.
  • Young people can be advocates, too! Anyone can make a difference, regardless of age.
  • Challenges in Advocacy:
    • Not everyone may agree with your cause.
    • It can be hard to get others to listen, but persistence and kindness are key.

4. Advocacy for People Experiencing Homelessness

• • Why is it important?: Homelessness is a serious issue that affects many people. Advocacy helps raise awareness and bring solutions to those who are struggling.
  • Sacred Heart Mission: This organisation provides support to people experiencing homelessness in Melbourne, offering services like housing, meals, and emotional support.
  • How can we help?:
    • Understanding the reasons behind homelessness.
    • Showing kindness and support to people experiencing disadvantage.
    • Using our voices to advocate for change in our communities.

5. Reflecting on Advocacy

• • Personal Connection: Think about a cause you care about and how you can advocate for it.
  • Challenges & Opportunities: Every advocate faces challenges, but they also have opportunities to inspire change, just like young people who raise awareness about homelessness.

• Advocacy – Speaking up or taking action to support a cause, person, or group. Advocacy helps bring attention to important issues and work towards positive change.
• Systemic Advocacy – Working to create change on a larger scale, such as in laws, policies, or community programs, to address issues affecting many people.
• Homelessness – When a person does not have a safe, stable, and secure place to live. This can include living in temporary housing, shelters, or moving frequently between places.
• Experiencing Disadvantage – Facing challenges that make it harder to access basic needs, like housing, education, or healthcare. This can happen due to unfair barriers in society, such as low income or discrimination.
• At Risk – Being in a situation where someone may face harm, hardship, or barriers to their well-being due to personal or social circumstances.
• Respectful Language – Using words that recognize a person’s dignity and avoid stereotypes or negative labels. For example, saying “a person experiencing homelessness” instead of “a homeless person.”
• Awareness Week – A set time dedicated to increasing public understanding of important social issues, such as Homelessness Week or Economic Justice Week.
• Petition – A formal request, signed by people, that asks leaders or decision-makers to take action on an issue. Petitions can be online or on paper.
• Local Representative (Council Member/MP) – An elected person who makes decisions on behalf of the community at a local, state, or national level. They can influence policies and laws related to social issues.

Websites

• Sacred Heart Mission: https://www.sacredheartmission.org/contact-us/ (Information on homelessness and SHM’s advocacy work)
• National Youth Commission of Australia: https://www.ayac.org.au/steering-committee (Resources on youth participation and activism)
• Youth Advocacy Network (Queensland): https://qai.org.au/ (Provides resources and training for young people who want to be advocates)
• Plan International Australia: https://www.plan.org.au/ (Offers resources and campaigns on social justice issues)
• Amnesty International Australia: https://www.amnesty.org.au/ (Information on human rights and how young people can get involved)

Videos

• TED-Ed: How to start a movement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbaemWIljeQ
• The activism advantage: Greta Thunberg on why everyone can make a difference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuXaAv7i2ZM
• Youtuber Explains: How to Be an Activist (Even If You’re Shy): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1yNnmHvukw

‘The Puzzle of Life’ analogy:
“Imagine you’ve spent years building a giant puzzle. You’ve worked hard on it, and most of the pieces fit together. But one day, something out of your control happens, and most of your puzzle is lost or taken away. How would you feel?”

For a person experiencing homelessness, displaced from home can be like losing some pieces of the puzzle of life – it’s not just about losing a house, it’s about losing a sense of safety, routine, and belonging.

Write the word Empathy in the middle of your page. Then brainstorm words that describe how someone in the situation above might feel (e.g., frustrated, scared, confused, alone, determined).

Read the following explanation:

• What is Empathy? – Empathy is understanding and sharing someone else’s feelings by imagining what it’s like to be them.

Why is empathy important? How does it help us support others?

Watch the  Video Youth homelessness in Australia | Paige Coady | TEDxCronulla High School Youth (20 mins)

Ali’s family had to leave their home because her parents lost their jobs. They are staying with a relative but don’t know for how long.

Jordan is a teenager who lives in a shelter and still goes to school every day. They don’t always have the right school supplies, and sometimes they feel embarrassed.

Sam’s family had to leave their home after a natural disaster. They are staying in temporary housing and moving often, which makes it hard to keep up with school and friends.

Taylor and their mum are staying in a car while they look for a permanent place to live. Taylor still goes to school every day but finds it difficult to focus because they don’t always get enough sleep.

Riley’s dad lost his job, and he couldn’t afford rent anymore. Now, Riley and his family are staying in a motel, but they don’t know how long they can stay there.

Jess and her younger brother are staying with a family friend because their parents are unable to take care of them right now. Jess worries about what will happen next but tries to stay strong for her brother.

Help for people feeling stressed, anxious, or struggling emotionally

This support can include talking to a counsellor, joining support groups, or getting professional care to improve emotional well-being.

• What does “mental health” mean?
• Why is it important to talk about how we feel?
• What are some reasons people might feel stressed or anxious?
• What kind of help can mental health support programs provide?
• Where can someone go if they need support for their mental health?

You can copy and paste the questions and write your answers into the text box below

Help people before they lose their homes

Programs that help people before they lose their homes. Example: RentConnect (Australia)

• What challenges do people face when trying to rent a home?
• How does RentConnect help people find stable housing?
• Why is it important for people to have safe and secure housing?
• Who might need help from a program like RentConnect?

You can copy and paste the questions and write your answers into the text box below

Help people get jobs and stay financially stable

Programs that help people get jobs and stay financially stable. Example: Young Parents Education Program (Australia)

• Why is education important for getting a job?
• What challenges might young parents face when trying to finish school?
• How does the Young Parents Education Program support students?
• How do education and job training help prevent homelessness?

You can copy and paste the questions and write your answers into the text box below

Make sure workers earn enough money for basic needs.

Laws and policies that make life fairer for everyone. Example: Jobseeker

• What is JobSeeker, and who is eligible to receive it?
• Why is it important for government support, like JobSeeker, to be enough to cover basic living costs?
• How does receiving fair financial support help people afford housing and other essential needs?
• What challenges might people face if government support payments are too low?
• How do policies like JobSeeker and minimum wage laws help create a fairer society?

You can copy and paste the questions into the text box below

Find your own example – research online to find – a government policy or program that helps prevent homelessness.

• A government policy or program that helps prevent homelessness (e.g., rental support, job programs).
• A local community service that helps people experiencing homelessness (e.g., food banks, shelters).

You can use some or all of the words above to help in your key search word search.

• What is the program/service called?
• What does this program do?
• How does it help people?
• Who can access this support? (e.g., young people, families, people with disabilities)
• Why is this type of support important for preventing homelessness?

Sum up and share how your chosen policy, program or community service helps to reduce poverty and homelessness. Include 3 points if you can.

• Homelessness is more than just losing a home – It affects a person’s sense of safety, identity, and belonging.
• Empathy helps us understand others – Putting ourselves in someone else’s shoes allows us to see their challenges and strengths.
• There are real ways to help – Governments, communities, and individuals all have roles in preventing homelessness through support programs, policies, and advocacy.
• Systemic change matters – Addressing the root causes of homelessness (e.g., affordable housing, education, and mental health support) helps create long-term solutions.

• Poverty: When a person or family does not have enough money to afford basic needs like food, a safe home, clothing, and healthcare.
• Homelessness: Not having a stable or safe place to live. This can mean staying in temporary housing, shelters, or moving between different places.
• Income Inequality: When money is not shared fairly in society, with some people earning a lot while others struggle to afford basic needs.
• Social Safety Net: Programs and services that help people who are struggling financially. These can include support for housing, job training, or financial assistance during tough times.
• Systemic Factors: Big-picture issues in society that make it harder for some people to afford housing, get a good education, or find stable jobs. These can include the high cost of housing, lack of healthcare access, and unfair treatment.
• Social Mobility: A person’s ability to improve their financial situation and opportunities in life through education, work, or support.
• Minimum Wage: The lowest amount of money a worker can legally be paid per hour to help ensure fair wages.
• Housing Assistance: Programs that help people find and afford safe housing, such as rent support or public housing.
• Community Resources: Local services that provide help to people in need. These can include shelters, food banks, mental health services, and job training programs.
• Empathy: Understanding and caring about how someone else feels, especially when they are going through a tough time.
• Volunteer: A person who chooses to help others by giving their time and skills without being paid.
• Advocacy: Speaking up and taking action to support a cause or help people who need change.
• Data: Information collected to help understand problems like poverty and homelessness so that better solutions can be created.
• Equity: Making sure that everyone has what they need to be successful, even if some people need extra help to have the same opportunities as others.

• National Youth Commission (Australia): https://nycinquiry.org.au/ (Provides resources and information on youth homelessness and related issues)
• The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW): https://www.aihw.gov.au/ (Provides data and reports on homelessness in Australia)
• Homelessness Australia: https://homelessnessaustralia.org.au/ (Advocacy organization with information and resources on homelessness)
• Sacred Heart Mission: https://www.sacredheartmission.org/get-involved/be-an-ally/

A stereotype is a belief or idea about a group of people that is often too simple and not always true. Stereotypes can be based on things like what people look like, where they are from, or what job they have.

For example, thinking that all cats are mean because one scratched you is a stereotype. In reality, cats have different personalities—just like people!

A judgement is an opinion or decision we make about something or someone. We make judgements all the time! For example, deciding whether a movie is good or bad is a judgement.

Judgements help us make choices, but sometimes, we make judgements too quickly without knowing all the facts. If we judge someone based on a stereotype, we might believe something that isn’t true.

People experiencing homelessness often face unfair stereotypes. Here are some common ones:
❌ “People who are homeless are lazy and don’t want to work.”
❌ “All people experiencing homelessness are dangerous or mentally ill.”
❌ “Homeless people are just looking for money for drugs or alcohol.”
❌ “Homelessness is a choice.”

The truth is, anyone can experience homelessness, and there are many different reasons why people might not have a stable place to live. Some people lose their jobs, others escape unsafe home situations, and some struggle to find affordable housing.

Believing stereotypes can stop people from offering help or showing kindness to those who need it.

David was a construction worker, but after a knee injury, he couldn’t keep working. When he and his wife separated, he could no longer afford to rent a place alone. He now lives in his car while searching for a job that fits his physical needs.

Olivia had to leave home to escape an unsafe family situation. She is studying at TAFE but doesn’t have enough money to rent her own place. She stays with friends when she can, but she doesn’t always have a stable place to sleep.

Maya’s parents lost their jobs, and the family was evicted from their home. Even though Maya does well at school and has a part-time job at a café, she and her family still struggle to find a permanent place to live.

False

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In this lesson, we explored what youth homelessness is, who it affects, why it happens, and what we can do to help.

Here are the key things to remember:

What is Youth Homelessness?

Youth homelessness happens when a young person (aged 12–24) doesn’t have a safe, secure, or permanent place to live.

It doesn’t always mean living on the streets—homelessness can look like:

• Couch surfing (staying with friends or family short-term)
• Living in overcrowded or unsafe places
• Staying in shelters or temporary accommodation

Why does it happen?

Young people can become homeless for many reasons, including:

• Domestic violence or conflict at home
• Breakdowns in relationships
• Not enough affordable housing
• Mental health challenges or trauma
• Lack of money or support

What is it like for a young person who is experiencing homelessness?

Being homeless can affect every part of a young person’s life:

• It can be scary, stressful, and feel unsafe.
• It’s hard to focus on school, work, or even finding your next meal.
• Many young people feel hopeless or lonely.
• It can lead to mental and physical health issues.

How big is the problem in Australia?

• In 2021, 28,204 young people aged 12–24 were counted as homeless in Australia.
• That’s enough to fill Rod Laver Arena almost twice!
• And this doesn’t even include younger children.

What can be done to help?

We brainstormed solutions and government actions like:

• More youth shelters and affordable housing
• Support programs in schools and communities
• Spreading awareness to break the stigma

We took positive action by…

• Creating awareness posters
• Writing letters to Members of Parliament
• Discussing what we can do as individuals, schools, and communities

Quick takeaways:

• Youth homelessness is real and widespread
• It affects young people’s health, education, and safety
• There are services to help, but more is needed
• We can all make a difference

• Homelessness – When a person does not have a safe, stable, or permanent place to live.
• Family breakdown – When relationships in a family stop working. This can lead to conflict, separation, or someone leaving home.
• Mental health – A person’s emotional and psychological well-being, including how they think, feel, and cope with stress.
• Trauma – Deep emotional pain or distress caused by difficult experiences, such as violence, loss, or serious hardships.
• Alcohol misuse / Substance abuse – When someone uses alcohol or drugs in a way that harms their health or life.
• Abuse – Harmful actions, like physical or emotional abuse, that happen within a family or home.
• Affordable housing – Housing that people can pay for without struggling to afford other basic needs such as food and transport.
• Centrelink income – Financial support provided by the government to people who need help with living costs.
• Stigma – Negative attitudes or unfair judgments about a person or group, often based on misunderstandings.
• Real estate agent – A person who helps people rent or buy houses and apartments.
• Landlord – A person who owns a property and rents it out to others.
• Couch surfing – When someone does not have a permanent home and stays temporarily with friends, family, or others.
• Refuge – A safe place where people can stay when they are escaping danger or homelessness.
• Feeling a deep sense of loss – when a person experiences strong emotions of sadness and emptiness when something important is gone or missing from their life.
• Hopelessness – A feeling of having no hope or not seeing a way to improve a difficult situation.

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True

False

True

If someone loses their job, they may not have enough money to pay for rent, food, or other needs. Without support, they might lose their home. In 2021–22, many people asked for help from homelessness services because of money problems. (org.au)

Family violence happens when someone in a family hurts or controls another person. Many people, especially women and children, leave their homes to stay safe, even if they have nowhere else to go. In 2021–22, around 108,000 people needed help from homeless services because of family violence. (missionaustralia.com.au)

Mental health issues affect how people think and feel. If people don’t get the right support, they might struggle to keep a job or a home. In 2021–22, about 82,500 people with mental health issues needed help because they were experiencing homelessness. (missionaustralia.com.au)

Some homes cost too much money for many people to afford. In Australia, there are not enough low-cost homes, which makes it hard for some people to find a safe place to live. This is a big reason why people experience homelessness. (humanrights.gov.au)

• What are some early life experiences that can shape a person’s future?
• How does growing up in a violent home affect how someone deals with problems?
• What are some challenges people face if their family has struggled with poverty for generations?
• How did the speaker’s parents influence their views on family, community, and compassion?
• What did the speaker learn from their parents’ hard work and struggles?

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• Why do you think a lack of opportunities can make it harder for someone to break out of poverty?
• How do positive role models and access to education shape a person’s future?
• Do you think it is fair to say that early life experiences decide a person’s success? Why or why not?
• What are some ways society can support people who have grown up in difficult situations?
• How might the speaker’s experiences as a refugee and growing up in poverty influence their work today?

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• Why do you think some people overcome difficult backgrounds while others struggle?
• What can schools and communities do to support young people facing hardship?

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• Where did Aisha immigrate from?
• What was Aisha’s degree in?
• Why was it difficult for Aisha to find a job in Australia?
• What happened when Aisha ran out of savings?
• Why couldn’t Aisha get government support?

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• How do you think Aisha felt when she kept getting rejected from jobs?
• Why do you think Aisha’s qualifications were not recognised in Australia?
• What are some challenges that immigrants like Aisha might face when moving to a new country?
• If you were in Aisha’s situation, what would you do to try and find a stable place to live?
• What could the government or community do to support skilled immigrants like Aisha so they don’t end up experiencing homelessness?

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Homelessness happens for many different reasons, and often, these reasons overlap. Some of the main causes include:

• Family violence – Some people, especially women and children, have to leave home suddenly to escape violence and may not have anywhere safe to go.
• Unsafe home environments – Young people may become homeless due to abuse, neglect, or family problems.
• Mental health struggles – Without proper support, mental health challenges can make it hard to keep a job or a home.
• Physical health problems – Serious health issues can make working difficult, especially when medical costs are high and support is limited.
• Not enough affordable housing – When rent is too expensive, people may struggle to find a safe place to live.
• Money problems – Rising living costs, job loss, and low financial support can make it hard for people to afford housing and basic needs.
• Losing a job – If someone loses their job and doesn’t have enough financial support, they may not be able to pay rent or bills.
• Drug and alcohol addiction – This can make it difficult to manage money and keep a stable home, often linked to past trauma.
• Trauma and hardship – Experiences like abuse, war, or violence can make it harder to find support and keep a stable life.
• Lack of support after leaving care – Some people leaving hospital, prison, or foster care don’t get enough help and end up homeless.

These challenges are often connected, making homelessness a complex issue.

Homelessness means not having a safe, stable, and secure place to live. It can look different for different people—some might sleep on the streets, while others might stay in temporary housing or move between friends’ houses. People who are experiencing homeless often don’t have control over where they live, and they may not have the support of family or friends to help them through tough times.

Look at the following image – what do you see? What do you think? What do you wonder? Write down individually, share in pairs, discuss in larger groups.

Prompt questions

• How might this person feel unsafe?
• What might be unstable in this person’s life?
• How might this person be feeling or coping if they don’t have a stable home?

Sentences Starters to help

• They might be feeling unsafe because …
• One thing that might be unstable in this person’s life is …
• If the person has an insecure home, they might be feeling …

Instead of reflecting on your own home, think about what makes any home a safe and stable place to live.

Think about things like:

• Having shelter
• Access to food, water, and electricity
• Feeling safe from danger or harm
• Support from family, friends, or community
• A space to rest and relax

Look at your worksheet, which has two house-shaped sections.

On the left side, titled “Safe, Secure, and Stable,” write words or draw pictures that show what makes a home feel safe and stable.

Now think about times when a home might not be safe or stable.

What could make a living space feel unsafe or insecure?

Some examples are:

• No proper shelter or too many people in one space
• Not enough food or water
• Unsafe environment (violence, crime, or poor conditions)
• Moving a lot or not having a permanent home

Look at your worksheet, which has two house-shaped sections again.

On the right side, titled “Unsafe, Insecure, and Unstable,” Write words or draw pictures that show what makes a home feel unsafe or unstable.

• See – Look at the image of the MCG (which seats around 100,000 people).
• Think – Compare this to the 122,000 people experiencing homelessness on an average night in Australia. (ABS 2021)
• Wonder – What does this comparison show us about how big the issue of homelessness is in Australia?

Individually/ in pairs / small groups choose one or two statistics from the following list. Create a graph / infographic showing the numbers.

• Total number of people experiencing homelessness: In Australia, according to the 2021 census, around 122,000 people were experiencing homelessness on an average night (up from 116,000 in 2016).
• Homelessness in Victoria: Of the population in Australia who are experiencing homelessness, around 25% (30,660) are located in Victoria.
  Gender distribution: In Australia, homelessness is more common for people identifying as male than it is for those identifying as female.
• Transgender and gender diverse individuals: People identifying as Trans or GD make up around 20% have experienced housing instability or homelessness.
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation: People identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander make up around 20% of people experiencing homelessness in Australia. This is an unfair high percentage as First Nations people comparatively make up 3.8% of the Australia population.
• Recent immigrants: 15% of people experiencing homelessness were born overseas and arrived in Australia in the last 5 years.
• Youth homelessness: In 2021, young people aged between 12 and 24 years made up almost a quarter of all people experiencing homelessness, with 23% of the homeless population sitting in this age range.
• Older individuals: 15.8% of people experiencing homelessness were aged 55 years and over.
  Increase among women and girls: Since the ABS census in 2016, the number of women and girls experiencing homelessness has risen by 10%
• Average age of death among homeless individuals: An investigation by The Guardian Australia, found that for people experiencing homelessness in Australia, the average age of death was 44.5 years. This is compared to the average age of death for all Australians being 77.
• Importantly, these statistics do not include those living on the poverty line and at risk of experiencing homelessness.

Source: The above statistics on homelessness in Australia are mainly sourced from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2021 Census and various reports by The Guardian Australia.

Display your work.

Walk around the classroom and take notes on the following:

• What surprised you the most?
• Which statistic do you think is the most important to fix or improve?
• What can be done to support people experiencing homelessness?

Individually reflect or work in small groups to answer the following:

• What does this statistic mean?
• Why do you think this group might be more affected by homelessness?
• What social issues might cause this to happen?

Re-read the key points discussed about safe, secure, and stable housing compared to unsafe or unstable living situations.

• Homelessness means not having a safe, stable, or secure place to live. It often happens when people don’t have control over where they live or the support they need.
• It can happen because of unsafe living situations (like family violence or bad living conditions), unstable housing (like trouble paying rent or overcrowding), or not having secure housing (like not being able to find affordable or reliable homes).
• Rough sleeping (sleeping outside) is the most obvious type of homelessness, but it’s only about 6% of all cases. Most homeless people are “hidden homeless,” moving between different temporary places or sleeping in cars.
• Other types include couch surfing (staying with friends), staying in supported housing, or living in overcrowded homes.

In Australia:

• Over 122,000 people are experiencing homelessness (this number went up from 116,000 in 2016).
• 25% of people experiencing homelessness live in Victoria.
• Men are more likely to be experiencing homelessness, and First nations people make up 20% of the homeless population.
• 23% of people experiencing homelessness are young people aged 12-24.
• The average life expectancy for people experiencing homelessness is just 44.5 years, much lower than the national average
• People identifying as Trans or GD make up around 20% have experienced housing instability or homelessness. 
• 15% of people experiencing homelessness were born overseas and arrived in Australia in the last 5 years.   

• Homelessness – Not having a safe and stable place to live. This can mean living in different places, like temporary housing or staying with others, without a permanent home.
• Unsafe – Feeling or being in a place where you are not protected from harm or danger.
• Unstable – Something that is not steady or secure. A home or situation that changes a lot can feel unstable.
• Insecure – Not feeling safe or sure about something. Housing insecurity means not knowing if you will have a safe place to stay.
• Facing challenges – Dealing with difficulties in life, such as not having enough money, struggling to find a home, or other tough situations.
• Not having control of life – When a person feels they cannot make decisions about important things in their life, like where they live or what happens next.
• Permanent place to live – A safe and stable home where a person can stay long-term without the fear of having to leave.
• Temporary housing – A short-term place to stay, such as a shelter or emergency accommodation, until a more stable home is found.
• Rough sleeping – Sleeping outside or in places not meant for people to live, such as streets, parks, or abandoned buildings.
• Couch surfing – Staying at different people’s houses for short periods because you don’t have a home of your own.
• Supported accommodation – A safe place to stay where people receive extra help to find a stable home, manage daily life, or access services they need.
• Boarding or rooming house – A place where people rent a room and share facilities like a kitchen or bathroom with others. Some have support available, while others do not.
• Support of family and friends – Help from the people close to you, such as providing a safe place to stay, food, or emotional support during difficult times.
• The face of homelessness – The different ways people experience homelessness. There is no single ‘look’ of homelessness, as it affects people of all ages and backgrounds.
• Visible type of homelessness – When someone’s homelessness can be easily seen, such as sleeping outside or asking for help in public places.