A Safe Start:
How Anglicare WA Is Helping Young People Rewrite Their Futures
The Revd Chris Thomason, Chaplain
In a world where stability can feel out of reach for many young people, Anglicare WA is stepping in with a bold promise: ‘Every young person deserves a safe place to live and the opportunity to build a better future.’
This isn’t just a slogan—it’s a mission that drives a wide network of youth housing and homelessness support services across Western Australia.
From crisis accommodation to long-term housing and life skills training, Anglicare WA offers more than just shelter. Anglicare WA provides hope, healing, and the tools to thrive.
Beyond Shelter: A Holistic Approach to Youth Support
Anglicare WA’s youth services are built on a wraparound support model—meaning every young person receives tailored assistance that meets their unique needs. Whether it is helping someone escape unsafe housing or guiding them toward employment and education, the goal is always empowerment.
Key Services Include:
- Crisis and Transitional Accommodation: Safe, short-term housing for those in urgent need
- Long-Term Housing Support: Help finding and maintaining stable accommodation
- Independent Living Skills: Training in budgeting, cooking, and job readiness
- Specialised Support: Access to counselling, education, employment services, and community connections
- Youth workers at Anglicare WA are trained to listen without judgment and work collaboratively with clients to build realistic, achievable plans for the future
Spotlight on Foyer Oxford: A Launchpad for Life
One of Anglicare WA’s most innovative programs is Foyer Oxford, a world-class youth housing initiative. Run in partnership with Foundation Housing and North Metropolitan TAFE, Foyer Oxford is part of the international Foyer movement and serves as a launchpad for young people aged 16 to 24 who are ready to pursue education or employment but need a stable base to begin.
With capacity for up to 98 residents – including 24 young parents and their children – Foyer Oxford is the largest single-site youth homelessness service in Australia. Each resident lives in a fully furnished, self-contained small apartment and receives tailored support to help them build independent living skills and achieve personal goals.
Tom’s Story*: From Prison to Purpose
Tom’s journey is a powerful example of what’s possible when support meets determination. At 19, Tom was released from prison for the second time after serving time for drug and theft-related offences. His childhood was marked by instability, violence, and exposure to substance abuse.
After his release, Tom entered a rehabilitation program and began working on his anger and addiction issues. With limited life experience and strained family ties, Tom leaned on his treatment service and his own motivation to pursue a career in community services.
Through coordinated support, Tom entered transitional housing and enrolled in a Certificate IV in Community Services before gaining a place at Foyer. Despite barriers like his criminal record, he completed the qualification and set his sights on a Bachelor of Behavioural Science.
When his partner became pregnant, Tom’s priorities shifted. He engaged in relationship counselling and parenting programs, secured part-time work, and eventually full-time employment in warehousing. With help from Foyer staff, he and his partner moved into private rental housing, and Tom was promoted to assistant manager and reconnected with his family.
Tom’s story is one of transformation – proof that with the right support, young people can overcome even the most difficult circumstances.
* Names have been changed to protect privacy
Need Help? Here’s Where to Start
For urgent youth housing support, you can contact Entrypoint Perth at 1800 124 684 or 6496 0001
If you or someone you know is a young person in need of housing or support, Anglicare WA is also ready to help. Our team will guide you through the process and connect you with the right services.
You can also reach out to Anglicare WA directly, even if you’re seeking help on behalf of someone else.
Join the Mission
You can support this vital mission through:
- Donations
- Fundraising
- Volunteering
- Corporate and community partnerships
- Advocacy
Together, we can help young people not just survive - but thrive.