The Andrews Labor Government is providing more support to keep vulnerable kids safe with a roof over their heads and to stay connected to their families as part of its landmark investment in housing.

Thanks to $6.5 million in funding, 95 new portable studios – delivered through the Kids Under Cover organisation – will become a home for young people aged 12 to 21.

More than $3.4 million in funding for 50 of the studios was announced last year, with a further $3.1 million to now go towards an additional 45 to house at-risk young people in regional and metropolitan areas.

Fifteen percent of people accessing homelessness services in 2019-20 were aged between 15 and 24 with key drivers including overcrowding and poor housing conditions.

Through Kids Under Cover, the initiative is providing one and two-bedroom studios at the home of the young person’s family or a guardian. The studios give a young person a secure and stable place to live while remaining connected to their loved ones.

So far, young people in Sebastapol, Robinvale, Craigieburn, Cobram, Mill Park and Yarrawonga have already received their relocatable studio, with more studios to be provided to young people in Mildura, Heidelberg Heights, Corio, Bulleen, Sale and Churchill.

All young people who receive a studio are also eligible for scholarship funding for textbooks, school activities and travel costs for school or training.

The Labor Government’s historic $5.3 billion investment in social and affordable housing, the Big Housing Build, is creating thousands of much-needed homes and jobs across Victoria.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Youth Justice Natalie Hutchins

“These studios mean young people who may otherwise have faced homelessness are able to stay close to loved ones and caregivers, but also have their independence.”

“Keeping young people close to their support network is a key part of helping them stay on track.”

Quote attributable to Kids Under Cover CEO Jo Swift

“This investment will make a life changing difference for young people at risk and we are excited to work in partnership with the Victorian Government on addressing this critical housing need through our Studio Program.”