Rethinking Youth Support in Queensland: A Once-in-a-Generation Opportunity

Every day in Queensland, too many young people are slipping through the cracks. Some are leaving care without safe housing. Others are exiting detention with no support system. Many are experiencing homelessness before they even turn 18.

The human cost is devastating. The financial cost is staggering.

And yet — despite this level of investment — the outcomes remain poor. Too many young people reoffend, disengage from education, or cycle back into crisis services.

It begs the question: are we investing in the right solutions?

For decades, the system has focused on managing crisis, not building pathways. But research is clear: young people thrive when they have three essentials — a safe home, a supportive community, and a clear path into education or work.

When those elements are in place, outcomes shift dramatically. Housing stability increases. Mental health improves. Reoffending drops. Futures change.

This isn't just about social good, it's also about economic responsibility. Evidence shows that every dollar spent on housing + support saves governments up to two dollars in avoided justice, health, and welfare costs.

Queensland has a chance to do something extraordinary. To turn past investments into a positive legacy for the future.

Imagine if we could create a place where:

• Young people are supported 24/7 by trained staff.
• Mental health care, education, and vocational pathways are built in.
• Community and cultural connections are strengthened.
• Every young person has the chance to belong — and the tools to thrive.

This isn't about short-term fixes. It's about building a system that works — one that saves money and changes lives.

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. It will take courage, vision, and collaboration across housing, justice, and community services.