Next Step

Next Step is an intensive, individualised program designed to build upon the unique relationship established with the young people who have used our accommodation services.

Young people are supported to move into independence by ensuring access to the private rental market, engagement with work or education and connection to their local communities. This strengths-based approach focuses on each young person’s capacity to overcome the challenges that have led them into homelessness, and to take control of their future.

The program is based on a contract between the young person and Next Step, where each has committed to participate. Next Step commits to ensuring access to housing, furniture packages and intensive support while the young person commits to participating in a support program.

Since it was established in 2009, Next Step has achieved an astonishing success rate. Over the past five years, just over 500 young people experiencing homelessness have been through the Next Step program. Of these, approximately 450 (or 90%) have broken the cycle of homelessness and are still living in private rental accommodation.

Next Step receives no government funding, and is entirely funded by philanthropic support and the generosity of donors.

For information about referring a young person to the Next Step program, email NextStep@sjys.com.au