New data from the Institute of Health and Welfare has revealed the alarming scale of child homelessness and suicide in Australia. In one year, more than 13,000 unaccompanied children sought help from homelessness services, with the majority remaining unhoused.
Over a decade, 520 children known to have been homeless died, with suicide identified as the leading cause of death. The findings highlight a severe crisis affecting vulnerable young people across the country.
Kate Colvin from Homelessness Australia and Shorna Moore from Melbourne City Mission and Hometime have commented on the data. Former homeless child Arlo also shared his experiences, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.
The report calls for increased support and resources to address the root causes of homelessness and provide mental health services to at-risk youth.
