The Palaszczuk Government has called on homelessness organisations to tender for a new mobile support service for young people in Caboolture and surrounds.

State Member for Morayfield Mark Ryan said the mobile support service, part of the Queensland Housing Strategy 2017-2027, would assist local young people who are living rough, couch surfing or struggling to maintain a tenancy.

“On any given night in our region, there are too many young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness – thousands right across Queensland,” Mr Ryan said.

“There are many reasons young people can become homeless. It’s rarely a single reason, which is why we need specialist services with skilled and experienced staff.

“Homelessness can be a result of violence in their home, or alcohol or drug issues within their family. Mental health can also be a factor, or issues relating to gender or sexuality.

“This local mobile support service will mean that young people will receive tailored support, based on their individual needs – and importantly, they can receive that support where they are.

State Member for Pumicestone Rick Williams said by providing direct assistance, young people can be helped faster and more effectively with whatever they need.

“The mobile youth service also has an important role to play in preventing homelessness,” Mr Williams said.

“As well as finding somewhere to live, young people need to learn a range of skills to maintain their accommodation.

“This mobile service will mean young people can receive support like helping them to develop a budget, teaching cooking and shopping skills.”

Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said the Queensland Government was investing more than $170,000 in the Caboolture service over the next 12 months.

“Now we want local organisations to put their hands up to deliver the service,” he said.

“Interested organisations will need to demonstrate their ability to deliver mobile support services and provide longer-term housing options, as well as having experience working with young people.

“The program will provide young people, aged between 16 and 25, with the help and skills they need to find and keep a safe and secure home and prevent them falling into homelessness.”

In 2017-18, the Queensland Government is investing more than $128 million to deliver specialist homelessness services across Queensland.

To submit a tender, visit the Queensland Government’s QTenders website at: www.hpw.qld.gov.au/qtenders. Submissions close on Wednesday 6 September, 2017.