$2.4 million towards new youth homelessness diversion program

• $2.4 million to partner in a new youth diversionary homelessness program with Parkerville Children and Youth Care and the Sisters of St John of God
• Ruby's pilot to support young people aged 12 to 17 who are at risk of homelessness
• Program to stabilise at-risk family units with focus on improved communications and co-operation

The Cook Government will deliver $2.4 million towards a new diversionary youth homelessness pilot program in partnership with Parkerville Children and Youth Care and the Sisters of St John of God.

Ruby's will deliver a first-of-its-kind early intervention and diversion service, aiming to establish reunification by offering supported programs that work on improved communication and cooperation.

It aims to enhance family stability and reduce the risks of children and young people experiencing homelessness.

The Ruby's pilot will support children and young people aged between 12 and 17 years of age and provides assistance for young people experiencing mental health illnesses, drug and alcohol misuse and family conflicts.

The service commences on 1 July 2024, under a two-and-a-half-year pilot which will also include an evaluation.

Ruby's will operate seven days a week from the Parkerville Children and Youth Care facility under a funding arrangement between the Department of Communities and the Sisters of St John.

Comments attributed to Homelessness Minister John Carey:

"The Cook Government is proud to partner with Parkerville Children and Youth Care to deliver a first-of-its-kind youth homelessness early intervention and diversion service to support at-risk youth.

"The State Government is committed to supporting Western Australia's most vulnerable people and is investing a record $3.2 billion in housing and homelessness measures.

"Last month, we announced an unprecedented $92.2 million in funding for homelessness initiatives as part of the 2024-25 Budget.

"Our message is clear – we are doing everything we can to provide support for those who need it most."

Comments attributed to Parkerville Children and Youth Care CEO Kim Brooklyn:

"We are thrilled to launch Ruby's in partnership with the Department of Communities and the Sisters of St John of God.

"This initiative represents a significant step forward in our collective efforts to prevent youth homelessness and support families in need.

"Through Ruby's, we are committed to working closely with young people and their families to address the root causes of homelessness and create lasting solutions."