Child and Youth Homelessness Matters in Tasmania Webinar

Hosted by the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare (the Centre), this webinar is part of Youth Week Tasmania and Child and Youth Homelessness Matters Day. It brings together leaders and researchers to examine the state of child and youth homelessness in Tasmania and explore actionable solutions.

Child and youth homelessness is rising in Tasmania. Young people aged 12–24 now make up a quarter of all people experiencing homelessness, with children under 12 also increasingly affected. Our member organisations, working directly with those facing homelessness, housing insecurity, and instability, are seeing more children and young people seeking support. According to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, adequate housing is not just a fundamental human right—it is a right of every child.

Children themselves have shared what a safe and stable home means to them. As part of the More for Children report, Bessel and O'Sullivan heard directly from children and young people:

“When you have a home, [life is good].” – Mr Potato, 10 years
“I think kids need a safe place and a home to have an amazing life.” – Lily, 11 years

Our member organisations are uniquely positioned to drive solutions. That’s why we’re bringing together a diverse group of experts in child and youth homelessness and housing to share their insights.

This webinar will feature:

• Eleri Morgan-Thomas – CEO, Homes Tasmania

• Jurek Stopczynski – State Director Tasmania & Victoria, Mission Australia

• Andrea Witt – Executive Manager, Family and Community Services, CatholicCare Tasmania

• Dr Cadhla O'Sullivan – Research Fellow, Children's Policy Centre, Australian National University

This session is designed for professionals working with and for children and young people across sectors such as child and family services, disability, education, and justice. We warmly welcome all community sector and government professionals who see value in this conversation to attend and actively engage.