Young people with experience of child protection (CP) or youth justice (YJ) systems are disproportionately represented amongst Australia’s homeless population. Unacceptably, child protection and youth justice systems leave children and young people vulnerable and at risk of homelessness. There is little evidence of the perspectives of the young people who have made these transitions and their views of what would have improved their transition.

Key findings:

1. Many young people do not feel prepared or ready to transition from CP and YJ systems to independent living on the mandated date
2. There is a lack of knowledge and awareness of services and support to assist young people with their transition to independence
3. A strong relationship between young people and case managers is particularly important and valued part of the journey to independence for young people.
4. The transition for young people involved with both the child protection and youth justice systems is particularly difficult.

The report identifies 11 components for holistic support for young people leaving the child protection and youth justice systems.