Today is Youth Homelessness Matters Day, and across the Northern Territory we recognise and stand with young people who are experiencing, or at risk of homelessness.
The Northern Territory (NT) has one of the highest rates of youth homelessness, with almost 50% of the NT's homeless population under the age of 25. Severe house overcrowding accounts for 76% of homelessness in the Northern Territory, with a rate significantly higher than the national average.
Behind every statistic is a young person who is experiencing homelessness or is living in overcrowded conditions, often while finishing school, holding employment or raising a child of their own.
Every young person deserves a safe and stable place to live. But for too many in the Territory, that basic right is out of reach. Family breakdown, domestic and family violence, overcrowding, financial hardship and mental health challenges are just some of the reasons for this.
Across the Territory, the Department of Children and Families partners with specialist homelessness organisations to deliver vital support services. Whether it's crisis accommodation, transitional housing, outreach programs or case management, these services are available in urban centres and regional communities.
Young people in the NT are accessing specialist homelessness services at more than three times the national rate, often with complex needs.
In Darwin today, Anglicare NT hosted the annual Couch Surfing Race - a community event that raises awareness of youth homelessness and 'couch surfing', a common but hidden form of homelessness experienced by young people.
Department of Children and Families acting CEO Karen Broadfoot said the Territory is investing in solutions that help young people find safety and stability.
"Youth homelessness is not just about a lack of housing - it's about trauma, disruption, and disconnection. But with the right support, young people can rebuild their lives.
"Our partnerships with organisations like Anglicare NT who hosts the Couch Surfing Race are critical," Ms Broadfoot said.
"Events like the Couch Surfing Race shine a light on the issue in a creative and powerful way - and remind us that young people matter."
Youth homelessness services in the NT include:
CASY House (YWCA Australia) -youth crisis accommodation in Darwin.Ampe Akweke Place (ASYASS) - supporting young mothers and their children in Alice Springs.KYASS (Anglicare NT) - providing short-term accommodation and outreach in Katherine.YASS and YHOPP (Anglicare NT) - transitional and emergency housing for youth in Darwin.Youth Housing and Advocacy Program (ASYASS) - helping young people in Alice Springs build skills for independence.Youth Outreach Tennant Creek (CatholicCare NT) - reconnecting youth with family and community.Spin 180 and Homelessness Outreach Services (Mission Australia) - providing wraparound support to young people aged 12-21 in Greater Darwin.
NT Shelter CEO, Annie Taylor said Youth Homelessness Matters Day is a call to action.
"Every young person should have a safe place to sleep. Across the NT, youth homelessness remains far too common." Ms Taylor said.
"With around half of all Territorians experiencing homelessness under the age of 25, we must continue investing in services that meet young people where they are and give them real pathways to stability."
Anglicare NT CEO Craig Kelly said the Territory community has a role to play in creating hope and change.
"Youth homelessness can happen to anyone. It's not always visible, but the impacts are real and long-lasting," Mr Kelly said.
"Young people need to know we see them, we hear them, and we believe in their futures. Today is a chance for all of us to reflect, learn and act."
