The fifth Youth2Independence (Y2I) facility in the state was officially opened in Burnie today.

The Y2I program gives residents the stability they need to build strong social connections, pursue their goals and become active members of their local community by offering the support and tools they need to stand on their own.

Y2I is based on the successful international Education First Youth Foyer program, and is delivering positive outcomes for young people.

In the past year, 83 per cent of young people in the Y2I program achieved an employment outcome during their stay.

The Burnie Y2I will provide a place to call home for up to 26 young people aged 16-24. It will be managed by Youth, Family and Community Connections, which provides a range of services to young people, families and individuals across the North-West and West coasts.

A key element of the Y2I program is access to education and training opportunities and the location of the Burnie Y2I – between Hellyer College and the Burnie TAFE – is ideal for residents.

It is also close to the range of essential services our young people need, such as transport and medical services, and sporting, recreational and retail facilities.

Communal facilities at the site include a shared kitchen, dining room, laundry, gym, offices and meeting rooms, car parking, and outdoor recreational space, plus an on-site self-contained unit for support staff.

The Burnie Y2I joins four other Y2I facilities that are already successfully providing services to young Tasmanians: Thyne House in Launceston; Eveline House in Devonport; and Trinity Hill and Campbell Street in Hobart.

In addition to the five Y2I facilities, the Y2I program also includes cluster and share home sites that provide accommodation and support for young people who will benefit from living in a small, home-like environment.

The Burnie Y2I facility was designed by JAWS architects and built by local contractor, Stubbs Construction.

Read more about Homes Tasmania’s Youth2Independence program.