Wodonga’s Education First Youth Foyer is on track to open in February 2025.
Construction of the $15.75 million facility began in October 2023 at Wodonga TAFE’s McKoy Street campus. When completed it will house 40 at-risk or disadvantaged young people.
The project has been funded as part of the Victorian Government’s $50 million investment to combat youth homelessness under the $5.3 billion Big Housing Build program in partnership with Beyond Housing, Wodonga Institute of TAFE, and Junction Support Services.
Beyond Housing will manage the Wodonga Youth Foyer, while Junction Support Services will provide essential support to residents.
The Education First Youth Foyer program is designed to break the cycle of homelessness by empowering young people aged 16 to 24 to build secure and sustainable futures. This includes supported housing, education, employment, training, and a wealth of support and opportunities.
Beyond Housing has been managing an Education Youth Foyer in Shepparton for eight years.
Over this time, nearly 300 young people have advanced through the foyer, achieving notable successes such as five buying their own homes, one becoming a Youth Development Worker at Berry Street, and another serving as an Ambassador for the Foyer Foundation.
Who can live at the youth foyer?
You are eligible for the Education First Youth Foyer if you are:
- Aged 16 to 24 years old
- Unable to live at home or do not have a stable place to live
- Keen to get into education and training
- Willing to commit to staying in education and/or training.
