The snapshot captures the circumstances of 15–24-year-olds who accessed Melbourne City Mission's (MCM’s) homelessness programs in Victoria on 8th April 2025. It shines a light on the interconnected experiences of young people across four areas that are often treated in silos: family violence, health, education and employment, and persistent homelessness.

The data confirms that young people experiencing homelessness are navigating a system that is fragmented and reactive, not proactive or preventive. It confirms the urgent and growing need for early intervention, housing and wraparound support. 

Key findings

• 4 in 5 young people who experienced family violence before becoming homeless, have remained alarmingly consistent since the 2024 snapshot Victorian youth homelessness snapshot 2024.
• Continued risks apply with 2 in 3 young people reporting self-harm, suicidal ideation or suicide attempts.
• Health emergencies also remain high, with 1 in 2 having attended a hospital emergency department for mental health concerns, and 1 in 4 young people living with chronic pain.
• Intersectionality data continues to point towards compounding disadvantage and systemic inequality, with disproportionate numbers of First Nations youth, those identifying as LGBTIQA+, people from regional or rural areas, and young people born outside Australia.