Karinya Media Release ahead of the Tasmanian State Election

In the absence of any commitment by the major parties in the run-up to the State Election 2024 to support increasing funding of crisis accommodation services in line with Queensland and Western Australia by 20%, Karinya Young Women's Services is issuing a 'call to action' to our state politicians as a matter of priority.

Media Statement

 Ahead of the Tasmanian Election, Karinya Young Women's Service calls for immediate action on adequately funding crisis services for homeless youth.

"The rise in youth homelessness in our state is a clear call to action by the government," states Ms Jane Gaetani-Black, CEO Karinya Young Women’s Service. "Our political leaders must address this crisis directly and with the urgency it deserves. Policymakers can no longer ignore the needs of children and young people at risk."

In Tasmania, children and young people aged 12-24 represent 25% of the homeless population according to Australian Bureau of Statistics data from the 2021 Census, and this figure is expected to be higher than reported as the census fails to capture children and young people sleeping rough or couch surfing. This figure is also higher than the national average of 23%, and together with the recent findings of the Commission of Inquiry into the Tasmanian Government's Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in Institutional Settings suggests that Tasmania is not a state that cares for its children and young people.

Despite these concerning statistics, current election commitments by both Labor and Liberal in the run-up to the state election have failed to acknowledge the challenges this group experiences. "Statements made by our leaders that children are our future is pure rhetoric and not backed up by action or an intention to improve the children and young people service system," states Ms Gaetani-Black. “Whilst both major parties have been busy courting personalities, they’re neglecting opportunities to win back the faith of Tasmanians (spectacularly lost in the aftermath of the Commission of Inquiry into the Tasmanian Government Responses to Child Sexual Abuse) that they do actually care about young people and their safety.”

"An alarming reality has emerged in recent years: young individuals, desperate for a roof over their heads, are being forced to exchange sexual services for a place to sleep. This is a profound betrayal of their safety and dignity."

Crisis services in Tasmania are dealing with unprecedented demand for accommodation and support for children and young people with complex mental health issues because of domestic and family violence, abuse, and neglect. Funding does not keep up with the care support required and while other states are topping up homelessness funding by 20%, the best that Liberal and Labor can do is 3.5% and 2.25% respectively.

Karinya advocates for the following key actions:

• Immediate expansion of crisis accommodation and support services for young people, particularly those affected by mental health issues and domestic and family violence, abuse, and neglect.

• Development and implementation of comprehensive, long-term strategies aimed at preventing youth homelessness, with a focus on addressing the underlying causes, such as mental health and domestic violence.

• Increased investment in supportive and affordable housing solutions tailored to the needs of young Tasmanians, ensuring they have access to safe, appropriate, and nurturing environments.

Karinya is committed to working alongside the government and community partners to address and mitigate youth homelessness in Tasmania but stresses that this requires the government to take the lead.

"We need action now to ensure our young people have the support and resources they need to lead healthy, safe lives."

Lisa Amerikanos

Board Chair

Karinya Young Women’s Service

About Karinya:

Karinya is a dedicated non-profit organisation committed to combating youth homelessness in Tasmania. Through support, advocacy, and community engagement, Karinya aims to create a future where all young people have the security and opportunities to lead fulfilling lives.