The Wodonga Education First Youth (EFY) Foyer has marked its first birthday, celebrating the incredible achievements of the young people who call it home.
Beyond Housing, Wodonga TAFE, Junction Support Services and the Brotherhood of St Laurence delivered the Wodonga EFY Foyer, with funding from Homes Victoria.
The EFY Foyer is now home to 40 local young people, aged 16 to 24, who were previously experiencing or at risk of homelessness. It provides students with safe and secure accommodation and wraparound support to help them stay in education, gain independence and build a better future.
Maddie is one of the students living at the Wodonga EFY Foyer, having moved in during November 2025. She said being there had helped her immensely.
“Living at the EFY Foyer gave me more than just a roof over my head. It gave me a home, which meant I didn’t have to couch surf anymore,” she said.
“It has provided me with stability, genuine support and a safe space to heal and grow. I’ve built meaningful relationships and finally feel like I have somewhere I belong.”
Fellow student Jett was one of the first to move into the Wodonga EFY Foyer in May 2025. He said his year at the EFY Foyer had been transformative.
“Living at the EFY Foyer has strengthened my connections with the people around me, allowing me to build more meaningful and supportive relationships,” he said.
“Through these connections, I’ve been able to grow in many areas of my life, including my confidence, communication skills, and overall sense of wellbeing.”
Students, staff and stakeholders came together to celebrate the first anniversary with speeches, activities and a special birthday cake.
Northern Victoria will soon have another EFY Foyer, with construction to soon begin on a Wangaratta EFY Foyer.
Quotes attributable to Beyond Housing CEO Celia Adams
“It is amazing to see the impact the Wodonga EFY Foyer has already had on the lives of so many young people.”
“Youth homelessness is a major issue in our region, and there are few better ways of addressing it than through EFY Foyers.”
Quotes attributable to Northern Victoria Institute of TAFE CEO Phil Paterson
“The Wodonga Education First Youth Foyer demonstrates the power of education. Access to uninterrupted education is one of the pillars of homelessness, and the EFY Foyer responds directly to the unique homelessness challenges faced by young people in Wodonga and surrounds by providing meaningful, targeted support.
“Hearing the stories of positive impact emphasises the importance of the EFY Foyer in providing a positive destination. On the first anniversary we welcome more young people through our doors, supported by the proven success of the collaborative services model.”
Quotes attributable to Junction Support Services CEO Megan Hanley
“Over the past 12 months, we’ve seen what is possible when young people are given stability, encouragement and the opportunity to stay connected to their education.”
“This milestone really reflects the strength of our partnerships, not only with Brotherhood of St Laurence, Wodonga TAFE and Beyond Housing, but also with other local businesses that have supported our Education First Youth Foyer. Every contribution that has been made has played an important role in supporting young people to build confidence, stay engaged in learning and move towards their goals.”
“The Education First Youth Foyer model continues to show its value, creating a strong foundation for young people to feel supported and connected. Education is a key pillar which young people are able to use to shape a positive future for themselves, we are excited to see the continued successes for young people from the foyer and for the wider community.”
Quotes attributable to Brotherhood of St. Laurence Executive Director Travers McLeod
“We know that resolving youth homelessness in Australia requires more than providing housing alone. It means connecting young people with education, training, employment and their wider community so they can live the lives they aspire to.
“It’s wonderful to see the positive impact the Education First Youth Foyer is already having on young people’s lives in Wodonga.”