Quantum Support Services' youth refuge supports young people from across Gippsland, including Baw Baw Shire.
With the support of case workers, the Youth Housing Options (YHO) program and other housing facilities can provide vital services to vulnerable young people at risk of homelessness. These are some of their stories.

Sally was referred to YHO last year. At just 19, Sally faced extreme risk of homelessness. She had a history of residential care placement, trauma, daily substance use and significant mental health issues.
After aging out of Better Futures (a program for young people leaving care), Sally remained in a transitional housing management property. With no stable housing options, she was at risk of eviction and street homelessness.
Initial engagement with YHO was difficult. Sally completed only part of her intake before disengaging for three months.
The case worker persisted with outreach and eventually re-engaged Sally, building rapport through consistent, non-judgmental support. Sally began showing trust, interest in her future, and a desire for change.
With intensive support, Sally learned how to search and apply for private rentals. She disclosed her wish to live with her mother and partner, both also facing housing instability. The case worker supported multiple weekly inspections, advocated with real estate agents, and helped fund a laptop to support Sally's education goals.
Sally, her mother, and partner were approved for a private rental and moved in within a week. She is now seven months clean from ICE, enrolled in a TAFE alcohol and drug course, and is maintaining safe, stable housing with her family.
Her case highlights how the YHO program prevents youth homelessness by offering tailored, persistent, and compassionate support. Sally's story is a powerful example of how housing stability can be the foundation for long-term change.
Young person entered a youth residential building (YRB) after experiencing a long period of homelessness and couch surfing. The person gradually built trust with staff while attending TAFE and exploring future employment options.
During her stay, she focused on managing her mental health independently through fitness and coping strategies. She worked closely with YRB on housing readiness, learning to apply for private rentals and managing budgets.
As she turned 18, she took full ownership of her housing future, independently applying for the Berry Street GOALS program and securing stable accommodation shortly after leaving the YRB.
Her transition from homelessness to stable housing was marked by significant personal growth and increased independence, highlighting the critical role of YRB support in preventing youth homelessness and fostering self-advocacy.
Young mother facing homelessness and family violence
A 21-year-old mother and her four-year-old child experienced homelessness after fleeing family violence. Previously living in a private rental with her partner, she lost stable housing when the relationship broke down. The child primarily stayed with their grandmother.
With limited family support and a history of trauma and child protection involvement in her childhood, she sought help from crisis services and was placed in temporary accommodation at a YRB for five weeks.
She actively engaged with housing services and applied for housing. Referrals to public and community housing providers helped her secure an affordable private rental, which she maintained through government support and income from new employment.
Despite her motivation and progress, challenges remain due to limited medium-term crisis accommodation, long waitlists for family violence counselling, and insufficient affordable housing options for youth.
This case highlights the critical need for more accessible, flexible housing and support services tailored to young people escaping homelessness and family violence.