The City of Melbourne is committed to creating a city community where young people participate, contribute and enjoy life in a safe and welcoming environment. Its Frontyard service is a key component of Council’s efforts to look after its young people. A one stop shop for youth, Frontyard offers a range of support services for young people who live in and around the city, and have been identified as homeless or experiencing a range of social, physical and emotional problems.
Frontyard was commended in the Youth Services section of the 2002 National Awards for Local Government. The program provides accommodation referral, employment and training, financial support and advice, legal assistance and advocacy, family mediation and reconnection, specialised and generalist health services, drug and alcohol treatment and counselling services Support services at Frontyard include the following.
Melbourne Youth Support Service – Information and referral service for crisis housing, material aid, casework, and outreach for young people aged 15-25 who are experiencing/at risk of homelessness.
Reconnect – Early intervention service providing free family mediation, support and referral for young people aged 12 to 18, who have recently left home, or are at risk of leaving home prematurely. The program aims to re-engage the person with their family and/or education, training, employment and their community of choice.
YouthNet – This computer based training service assists young people to develop skills that may lead to improving employment opportunities. They may use the Internet, write CVs design a web page and email friends.
Youthlaw – A free legal service providing casework and referral and education programs for young people and their workers.
Young People’s Health Service – Services covering physical, mental, dental and sexual health as well as drug and alcohol issues. Staff also provide referrals as necessary in addition to education and support. Centrelink – The full range of services are available.
