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Leaving Care Hub – Life After the System

Leaving Care Hub

Life After the System

Getting ready to leave care?

We’ve got you.

Leaving care is a big step – but you don’t have to do it alone.

AbSec has created the Leaving Care Hub to help young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people prepare for leaving care, understand their rights, access housing, financial support and support services, and stay connected to culture, family and community.

OUR COMMITMENT

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, leaving care is not just about independence, it is also about connection. Connection to family, community, Country and culture is central to identity, wellbeing and strength. This resource is grounded in self-determination, cultural safety and Aboriginal-led solutions.

Real experiences

“No one told me I had to apply for housing early…”

“I left care with nowhere to go – I just wanted somewhere safe and stable.”

“The system is confusing… you don’t know what you’re entitled to.”

“Emergency housing was scary… I didn’t feel safe there.”

“My leaving care plan was done at the last minute, right before I turned 18. I didn’t even understand half the stuff on it and it was irrelevant – no help whatsoever.”

Sections

Getting Ready to Leave Care

What does leaving care mean?

Read More

Age 15–16

Start Your Leaving Care Plan

Read More

Age 16–17

Start Putting Your Plan into Action

Read More

Age 17–18

Finalise Everything Before Leaving Care

Read More

Money, Payments & Grants

Don’t Miss Out on Entitlements

Read More

Housing

Plan Where You’re Going to Live

Read More

Your Story, Your Support & Your Rights

Accessing Your Care Records & Finding Family

Read More

Confirmation of Aboriginality

Accessing the Services You Are Entitled To

Read More

Healing, Identity & Mental Wellbeing

Leaving Care Can Bring Up a Lot of Emotions

Read More

Support Services

Homelessness Support (NSW and National)

Read More

Life Skills

Skills Grow With Time and Support

Read More

downloads & tools

Leaving Care Checklist
Budget Planner
Housing Application Checklist

Your journey doesn’t end when you leave care. It’s just the beginning of your next chapter.

You can take things one step at a time:

  • Finding a safe place to live
  • Getting your money sorted
  • Building your independence
  • Reconnecting with family, culture and community


And if things don’t go to plan – that’s okay too. You can always reach out, reset, and try again. Support is still there.

You are strong. You are capable. You deserve stability, safety and a future that feels right for you.

final message

You deserve a safe place to live, support around you and a strong future.

Leaving care is a big step—and it’s okay if you feel unsure, overwhelmed, or not fully ready. Most young people don’t have to figure everything out at 18, and you shouldn’t have too either.

What matters is this:

  • You are not alone
  • You are allowed to ask for help
  • You have the right to support, stability and opportunity


There are people, services and communities who care about you and want to see you succeed – especially Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and communities who understand your story and walk alongside you.

ABOUT THIS HUB

This resource has been developed as part of the Client Experience Initiative (CEI) – Housing Project, funded by the Aboriginal Housing Office (AHO) and delivered in partnership with AbSec and Dhiira.

The Hub has been informed by extensive co-design workshops and community consultation, bringing together Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people with lived experience of out-of-home care and transitioning from care.

Their voices, insights and experiences have directly shaped the content, ensuring this resource is practical, culturally grounded and responsive to the real needs of young people as they move towards independence.

Getting ready to leave care?

What does leaving care and aftercare mean?

Leaving care is when you are no longer legally under a care order. This usually happens when you turn 18 and the State is no longer responsible for your day-to-day care.

But leaving care doesn’t mean you’re on your own.

If you have been in care, you are still entitled to support as you transition into adulthood. This support is called aftercare, and it can be available to you up until the age of 25.

Aftercare is there to help you build independence, confidence and stability. It can include:

  • Financial support
  • Help finding housing
  • Access to services like counselling or legal advice
  • Support to reconnect with family, culture and community

Getting Support After Leaving Care

Before you leave care, your caseworker or support agency should work with you to create a Leaving Care Plan.

You might also hear this called:

  • a Transition Plan
  • a Future Plan
  • an Aftercare Plan

Your Leaving Care Plan is an important document that helps prepare you for life after care and supports your transition into independence. Planning should begin from around the age of 15, giving you time to prepare, ask questions and access the supports you may need.

Your plan should be tailored to you and include:

  • Your goals for the future
  • The supports and services you may need
  • Steps and actions to help you prepare for independence
  • Information about housing, education, employment and finances
  • Health and wellbeing supports
  • Any disability or cultural support needs
  • Important contacts and ongoing support arrangements


It should specify:

  • Where you’re going to live
  • Your education or employment plans
  • Your finances and income
  • Your health and wellbeing
  • Your support networks
  • Your family and cultural connections


It should also clearly outline:

  • What support you will receive
  • Who will help you
  • What steps you need to take


Having a current Leaving Care Plan is very important, as it will be required when applying for supports such as the Transition to Independent Living Allowance (TILA) and other leaving care assistance programs.

Remember — your plan should not be rushed or completed at the last minute. It should reflect your goals, your needs and what matters to you as you move into adulthood.

This plan is all about you and your future.

Don’t have your plan? You can still get help

If you don’t have a copy of your Leaving Care Plan—or you’re not sure if one was completed—you can:

  • Contact your caseworker or the organisation that supported you in care
  • Call the Care Leavers Line: 1800 994 686 or Email: CareLeavers@dcj.
    nsw.gov.au
  • Reach out to a specialist aftercare service or


Your life won’t stay the same—and your plan shouldn’t either. As things change, your plan can be updated to support you.

For example, you might need:

  • Help with study or training costs
  • Support getting your licence
  • Assistance setting up a home
  • Extra help if you’re becoming a parent
  • More support during a tough time


You have the right to ask for your plan to be reviewed and updated when your situation changes.

How to update your plan

If you need to review or change your Leaving Care Plan, you can:

  • Contact your caseworker or previous care agency
  • Call the Care Leavers Line: 1800 994 686 or Email: CareLeavers@dcj.
    nsw.gov.au
    (It is always good practice to have a paper trail of your communication)


Remember: Leaving care is a transition—not a cut-off point.  Support doesn’t stop at 18.

You still have the right to guidance, assistance and opportunities as you build your future.

Specialist Aftercare Support (Ages 17–24)

If you need extra support after leaving care, there are services just for you. The Specialist Aftercare Program is designed to help young people aged 17–24 who need a bit more support during their transition.

What they can help with:

Support is tailored to you and your situation, and may include:

  • One-on-one support (casework)
  • Mentoring
  • Help setting and reaching goals
  • Group programs
  • Outreach support (including remote areas)
  • Cultural support and planning for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander young people, Support connecting to community and Country and help making sure your plan reflects your identity.

How to Access Support

You can:

  • Talk to your current caseworker or care provider
  • Contact a Specialist Aftercare Service directly


Need help finding the right service? 
Care Leavers Line: 1800 994 686 

NDIS & Disability Support

If you have a disability or think you might be eligible for support, it’s important to plan early.

The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) provides support to help people live independently and safely.


If you already have an NDIS plan

Before leaving care, make sure:

  • Your plan is up to date
  • Your supports will continue after you turn 18
  • You know who your NDIS contact or support coordinator is
  • Housing and daily living supports are included if needed

 Things to think about:

  • Where will you live?
  • Will you need help with daily tasks?
  • Do you need support workers?
  • Do you need transport or therapy supports?


If you don’t have an NDIS plan

You may still be eligible. Talk to your caseworker / A support service  / NDIS directly.  Learn more or apply: https://www.ndis.gov.au

Top Tip: planning early is key. NDIS support can take time to organise – don’t leave it until the last minute.

Age 15–16: Start Your Leaving Care Plan​

This is where it all starts. Don’t leave it till the last minute.
The earlier you get onto it, the more time you have to sort housing, money and support.

Your Leaving Care Plan should be developed with you – not for you. Your voice matters.

What should be included in your Leaving Care Plan?

Important tip: don’t wait until the last minute. Ask questions. This is your future.

Housing:

where you will live when you leave care, whether a housing application has been lodged, whether priority housing is being sought, and what your backup plan is.

Money and Income:

what payments you may be eligible for, whether you have a bank account, and whether you understand budgeting and basic money management.

Education, Training or Work:

whether you are staying at school, applying for TAFE or training, or planning to seek work, and what support is available to help you do that.

Important Documents:

birth certificate, Medicare card, photo ID, Tax File Number, Centrelink details, bank account details. Confirmation of Aboriginality documents.

Health and Wellbeing:

access to a GP, mental health support, medication, counselling and any ongoing health plans.

Support People:

caseworker, aftercare service, carer, trusted adult, family members or mentors who can support you.

Culture and Connection:

how you will stay connected to family, community, culture and Country; what Aboriginal services or supports will be involved; whether there is cultural mentoring or a cultural plan.

Life Skills:

budgeting, shopping, cooking, cleaning, using transport, paying rent and bills, managing appointments.

AGE 16-17: Start Putting Your Plan into Action

This is one of the most important stages. Housing and support applications should be started now, not when you are almost 18.

Housing – What you need to do now​

Apply for housing early through Housing Pathways: https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/housing/help/applying-assistance

Housing takes time. Applying early gives you the best chance of having a place to live when you leave care.

How to make a strong housing application

Make sure your application clearly says you are leaving care.

Explain why you will be homeless or at risk of homelessness if housing is not provided.

State clearly if you have no safe family option or stable place to stay.

Include strong supporting evidence.

Documents and evidence that help

  • A support letter from your caseworker.
  • Confirmation that you are leaving care or have a leaving care plan.
  • Any risk assessment or evidence of homelessness risk.
  • Relevant health or mental health letters if they affect your housing needs.
  • Evidence that current accommodation is unsafe or unstable.


Do not do this alone. Ask your caseworker, an ACCO, a housing worker or aftercare service to help strengthen your application.

Follow up regularly. Don’t just apply and wait.

Age 17-18: Finalise Everything Before Leaving Care

Before you turn 18, the following should be confirmed:

Before you turn 18, the following should be confirmed:

  • A housing plan with a confirmed place to live or a realistic, supported backup option.
  • Centrelink and leaving care payments applied for.
  • All important ID and documents ready and accessible.
  • Support services confirmed, including aftercare contacts.
  • Health and wellbeing supports in place.
  • Cultural support and connection pathways in place.


If these things are not ready, speak up immediately. You should not leave care with nowhere to live, no income and no support.

Money, Payments and Grants

Centrelink Payments

You may be eligible for one or more Centrelink payments depending on your age, housing situation, study or employment status.


Apply for these payments through Services Australia: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au

 

Leaving Care Payments in NSW

If you have been in statutory care in NSW, you may be eligible for specific leaving care supports.

  • Staying On Allowance (SOA) – paid to carers who continue to support a young person in their home after 18.
  • Independent Living Allowance (ILA) – paid directly to young people aged 18–20 living independently who need help with housing and essential living expenses.
  • Aftercare Allowance – for young people aged 18–24 in full-time education or training who would be at risk of homelessness without assistance.
  • PCEFS (Post Care Education Financial Support) – support for young people completing Year 12 while living with carers.

Staying on – Current policies of extended care to 21 years in NSW

Jurisdiction & Year of Rollout Number of Care Leavers p.a. Foster/Kinship Care Residential Care Case Worker Brokerage Comments
NSW
1329 (15-17)
$544/f/n 1st year $400/f/n 2nd year $250/f/n until 21 years
$250/fortnight until age 21 paid by DCJ directly into young person’s bank account
Package to include: funding for more caseworkers to support young people plan their transition out of care
No
  • The Independent Living Allowance gets paid into the young person’s account directly
  • The Independent Living Allowance is taxable income
  • Young person may not be eligible if they are accessing supported independent living programs (SILP’s)
  • Young people aged 18, 19 and 20 years are eligible

Transition to Independent Living Allowance (TILA)

TILA is a one-off Commonwealth payment of up to $1,500 to help young people leaving care with the costs of setting up independence. This can include bond, furniture, household items, education materials and basic essentials.

TILA information: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/transition-to-independent-living-allowance

Tertiary Accommodation Grant (AHO)

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student studying at TAFE or university, you may be eligible for financial support through the AHO.

This grant is designed to help with the cost of living while studying, so you can stay focused on your education.

  • Helps reduce financial stress
  • Supports you to stay enrolled and complete your course
  • Encourages more young people to take up study opportunities


Funding available: Up to $10,000

Find out more information at Aboriginal Housing Office:  https://www.aho.nsw.gov.au

Other one-off Supports you may be eligible for

Housing

Your Housing Options

When you’re getting ready to leave care, one of the most important things to plan is where you’re going to live. There are a number of different housing options available, and the right one for you will depend on your situation, support needs and what’s available in your area.

Some options are more long-term, like social or community housing, while others—like transitional or temporary accommodation—are designed to support you while you get on your feet. It’s important to start exploring your options early, ask questions and get support with applications, as housing can take time to secure.

Below are some of the main housing options you may be able to access as you transition out of care.

  • Social Housing (public housing managed by government)
  • Community Housing (managed by not-for-profit housing providers)
  • Transitional or supported housing
  • Private rental and share accommodation options
  • Staying with carers, family or kin if safe and appropriate

Aboriginal Housing Support

The Aboriginal Housing Office (AHO) plays an important role in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in NSW to access safe and appropriate housing.

They work alongside Homes NSW and other services to improve housing outcomes and make sure Aboriginal people are supported through the housing system.

If you’re applying for social or community housing, your application will usually go through:
Housing Pathways (NSW) https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/housing/help/applying-assistance

This is the main system used to assess applications and allocate housing, including properties managed by both Homes NSW and the Aboriginal Housing Office.

Once you are approved and placed into housing—whether it’s through Homes NSW or AHO—you will be recognised as being suitably housed within the system.

Applying for housing can feel confusing—but you don’t have to do it on your own.

There are services that can help you understand your rights, your options and support you through the process, including:

  • Aboriginal Tenants Advice & Advocacy Service (ATAAS)
  • Local Aboriginal housing and community organisations (ACCOs) in your area/region
  • Housing and homelessness support services


These services can help you:

  • Complete your application
  • Understand tenancy rules
  • Advocate for your needs

You can contact the Housing Contact Centre:  1800 422 322    (Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm)

They can help you with:

  • Housing applications
  • updating your details &
  • general housing enquiries.

Priority Housing – What you need to know

Priority housing means you are recognised as needing housing urgently. In NSW, leaving care does not automatically mean priority housing— Priority housing is for people with urgent housing need. In NSW, care leavers are not automatically placed on the priority list, but you may be eligible if you are homeless or at risk of homelessness and can show urgent need.

More information on priority housing can be found here:  https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/housing/help/applying-assistance/priority-housing

  • A clear statement that you will be homeless when you leave care.
  • Evidence that you cannot safely stay with family or carers.
  • Strong caseworker advocacy.
  • Support letters from an ACCO or specialist service.
  • Evidence of medical, social or safety issues.


Tip: To make the application stronger, ensure it clearly explains your care history, risk of homelessness, safety concerns, and any health, disability or social factors.

Housing Pathways – Step by Step

Step 1: Speak to your caseworker and start early.

Step 2: Gather recquired documents and evidence.

Step 3: Complete your housing application.

Step 4: Ask whether you should apply for priority housing and what evidence is required to support your priority housing application.

Step 5: Keep following up and update any changes.

While You Wait

Housing can take time. If you don’t have housing ready when you leave care, talk to your case worker or support service about other housing options we have previously mentioned above.

Important to know

The system can feel overwhelming—but support is available.

Reach out early, ask questions and get help where you can.  There are people and services ready to support you through the process.

Homelessness Support (NSW and National)

NSW

If you are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or have nowhere safe to stay tonight, contact:

Link2Home – 1800 152 152 (24 hours, 7 days)

Emergency accommodation information: https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/social-affordable/emergency-housing

Homes NSW also provides information on homelessness and urgent accommodation: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/homes-nsw

Specialist Homelessness Services (NSW)

Specialist Homelessness Services can help with crisis accommodation, transitional accommodation, case management, rapid rehousing, and support to maintain housing.

Find a service near you: https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/social-affordable/emergency-housing/find-a-specialist-homelessness-service

Specialist Homelessness Services information: https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/social-affordable/specialist-homelessness-services

Aboriginal-Specific Homelessness Supports

Aboriginal Homelessness Support Service (Sydney / Inner West) – 02 9518 3133

Aboriginal Corporation for Homeless Rehabilitation Community Services (ACHRCS) – 02 9564 2064 | [email protected] | https://achrcs.org.au

Bungree Aboriginal Association (Central Coast) – homelessness services and transitional housing: https://bungree.org.au/homelessness-services/

Aboriginal Housing Office – 1800 727 555 | https://www.aho.nsw.gov.au

YOUR STORY, YOUR SUPPORT & YOUR RIGHTS

Accessing Your Care Records & Finding Family

When you turn 18, you have the right to ask for information about your time in care. This is called your care records.

Your records may include:

  • Information about where you lived
  • Who cared for you
  • Notes about your time in care
  • Details that may help you reconnect with family.

Things to know

  • You don’t have to access your records straight away
  • You don’t have to access them at all if you don’t want to
  • You can choose to do it when you feel ready.


Your story is bigger than your file. Your care records are just one part of your story

Be prepared – Looking through your records can bring up strong emotions.

It’s normal to feel:

  • Confused
  • Emotional
  • Overwhelmed.


That’s why it’s really important to:

  • Have someone you trust with you
  • Get support while you go through them

Getting help

When you receive your records, you don’t have to figure them out alone.

If you need help to understand what everything means, you can ask:

  • Your caseworker
  • Your old care agency
  • An Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation support service.


For further information and how to apply, visit How to apply for your care records | Communities and Justice

You can find the Care Leaver Records Access Application form here or request one through your local Community Services Centre.

There is no rush. Only you know when you’re ready to learn more about your past.

Confirmation of Aboriginality

Your Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander identity is personal and important. You do not need a Confirmation of Aboriginality letter to know who you are or to identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

However, there may be times where you are asked to provide formal confirmation of your Aboriginality when applying for Aboriginal-specific services, programs or opportunities.

This can include things like:

  • Aboriginal housing programs
  • Indigenous-specific Centrelink supports
  • Scholarships or grants
  • Aboriginal identified jobs
  • University or TAFE programs for Aboriginal students
  • Aboriginal support services or programs

What is a Confirmation of Aboriginality?

A Confirmation of Aboriginality is usually a letter or certificate from an Aboriginal organisation or Local Aboriginal Land Council confirming your identity as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person.

Most organisations use three main criteria when assessing applications:

The three-part criteria

You must:

  • Be of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent
  • Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
  • Be accepted by the Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander community you are connected to

All three parts are important.

How you look, where you live, or whether you know everything about your family history does not determine your identity.

The first step is usually gathering information about your family and heritage.

This may include:

  • Birth certificates
  • Family history information
  • Photos or family records
  • Spoken histories from family members or Elders


Once you have this information, you can contact:

  • A Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC)
  • An incorporated Aboriginal organisation
  • A Stolen Generations organisation
  • A Torres Strait Islander organisation


They may ask you to:

  • Complete an application form
  • Explain your family connections
  • Provide documents or supporting information


If the organisation is satisfied with the information provided, they may issue you with a Confirmation of Aboriginality letter or certificate.

That’s okay. Many young people—especially those who have been in care, displaced from family, or impacted by trauma—may not have easy access to family records or paperwork.

If this applies to you:

  • Reach out for support early
  • Speak to your caseworker, ACCO or support service
  • Ask for help gathering documents and tracing family history


In some situations, a Statutory Declaration may be accepted if you cannot access standard confirmation documents.

This may apply if you are:

  • Leaving care
  • Escaping family violence
  • Experiencing homelessness
  • Leaving custody or institutional care
  • Affected by natural disasters or other major disruptions

Confirmation of Aboriginality & Housing

Some Aboriginal housing programs, including those connected to the Aboriginal Housing Office (AHO), may ask for Confirmation of Aboriginality as part of the application process.

The AHO generally accepts:

  • Confirmation letters from Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALCs)
  • Registered Aboriginal Organisations (RAOs)
  • Registered Stolen Generations Organisations (SGOs)
  • Torres Strait Islander Organisations (TSIOs)


If you don’t yet have this documentation, speak to the housing provider or support worker about alternative options or temporary arrangements while you work through the process.

Helpful Supports & Information

Aboriginal Housing Office (AHO)

https://www.aho.nsw.gov.au

AIATSIS Family History Support

https://aiatsis.gov.au/family-history

Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC)

https://www.oric.gov.au

Important to Remember

Connection to culture and identity can be complex, especially for young people who have experienced out-of-home care, family separation or displacement from community.

You are not expected to navigate this process alone.

Healing, Identity & Mental Wellbeing

Leaving care can bring up a lot of emotions

Leaving care is a major life transition.

Even when you’re excited for independence, it’s completely normal to feel:

  • overwhelmed
  • anxious
  • angry
  • confused
  • lonely
  • disconnected
  • unsure about the future


For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, leaving care can also bring up feelings around identity, belonging, family, culture and loss.

There is no “right” way to feel.

Healing takes time

Many young people in care have experienced trauma, grief, instability or separation from family and community.

Healing from these experiences does not happen overnight.

Some days you might feel strong and confident. Other days might feel heavy or exhausting.

That’s okay.

Healing is not about being “perfect” — it’s about learning how to care for yourself, build support around you and keep moving forward.

Connection Matters

Connection to:

  • culture
  • family
  • community
  • Country
  • Elders
  • safe people

 

can play a huge role in healing and wellbeing.

For Aboriginal young people, culture is not just tradition — it is identity, strength, belonging and resilience.

Reconnecting with culture can help you:

  • feel grounded
  • build confidence
  • strengthen identity
  • reduce isolation
  • feel supported and understood

It’s okay to ask for help

You do not have to carry everything on your own.

Getting support is a sign of strength—not weakness.

There are people and services who can support you through:

  • stress and anxiety
  • depression
  • trauma
  • grief and loss
  • anger or frustration
  • identity and family connection
  • feeling overwhelmed

Mental health support services

Aboriginal-specific support

13YARN

13 92 76

https://www.13yarn.org.au

A free and confidential crisis support line run by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Social and Emotional Wellbeing Services

You can also connect with:

  • Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS)
  • Aboriginal wellbeing workers
  • ACCOs
  • local healing programs


These services often understand cultural identity, trauma and community connection in ways mainstream services may not.

Youth Mental Health Support

Headspace

 https://headspace.org.au

Provides support for:

  • mental health
  • stress
  • relationships
  • alcohol and drugs
  • work and study

 

Kids Helpline

1800 55 1800

 https://kidshelpline.com.au

Free counselling and support for young people.

Crisis Support

Lifeline

13 11 14

https://www.lifeline.org.au

If you are struggling or need someone to talk to.

Looking after yourself

Healing and wellbeing can also include:

  • getting enough sleep
  • eating regularly
  • moving your body
  • spending time with safe people
  • connecting to culture and Country
  • taking breaks from stress
  • doing things that make you feel calm or happy


Small steps matter.

Identity & Belonging

It’s okay if you’re still figuring out:

  • who you are
  • where you belong
  • your family connections
  • your culture
  • your future


Many young people leaving care are still learning about themselves.

There is no deadline for healing, growth or reconnecting with culture.

Final Message

You are not defined by your trauma or your time in care.

You deserve:

  • safety
  • healing
  • support
  • connection
  • opportunities
  • peace

And most importantly: you deserve a future where you can thrive—not just survive.

SUPPORT SERVICES: Homelessness Support (NSW and National)

NSW

If you are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or have nowhere safe to stay tonight, contact:

Link2Home – 1800 152 152 (24 hours, 7 days)

Emergency accommodation information: https://www.nsw.gov.au/
housing-and-construction/social-affordable/emergency-housing

Homes NSW also provides information on homelessness and urgent accommodation: https://www.nsw.gov.au/
departments-and-agencies/homes-nsw

Specialist Homelessness Services (NSW)

Specialist Homelessness Services can help with crisis accommodation, transitional accommodation, case management, rapid rehousing, and support to maintain housing.

Find a service near you: https://www.nsw.gov.au/
housing-and-construction/social-affordable/emergency-housing/find-a-specialist-homelessness-service

Specialist Homelessness Services information: https://www.nsw.gov.au/
housing-and-construction/social-affordable/specialist-homelessness-services

Aboriginal-Specific Homelessness Supports

Aboriginal Homelessness Support Service (Sydney / Inner West) – 02 9518 3133

Aboriginal Corporation for Homeless Rehabilitation Community Services (ACHRCS) – 02 9564 2064 | [email protected] | https://achrcs.org.au

Bungree Aboriginal Association (Central Coast) – homelessness services and transitional housing: https://bungree.org.au/
homelessness-services/

Aboriginal Housing Office – 1800 727 555 | https://www.aho.nsw.gov.au

National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Support Services

NACCHO (National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation) – https://www.naccho.org.au

Link-Up NSW – (02) 9421 4700

Aboriginal Legal Service – 1800 765 767

Wirringa Baiya Aboriginal Women’s Legal Centre – 1800 686 587

Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline – 1800 019 123

SNAICC National Voice for Our Children – 1300 762 422

Youth Off The Streets

  • youthoffthestreets.
    com.au
  • Supports young people aged 12–24 in NSW who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
  • Provides safety, support, and education for a positive future.
  • Offers scholarships and educational support to help young people complete their studies

The Salvation Army

  • https://www.salvation
    army.org.au/
  • Offers housing and homelessness support, including emergency accommodation and assistance with finding stable housing.
  • Provides financial counselling, employment support, and youth services, study assistance

St Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies)

  • https://www.vinnies.
    org.au/nsw
  • Provides emergency housing and homelessness support, financial assistance, food, health and wellbeing services.
  • Offers tenancy advice and financial counselling for vulnerable young people

Good360

  • https://good360.org.au/
  • Connects charities and young people in need with businesses donating essential goods such as furniture, homewares, and electricals (including whitegoods) to help set up homes

Support and Services by Region (NSW)

  • Aboriginal Housing Office – 1800 727 555 | https://www.aho.nsw.gov.au
  • Link-Up NSW – (02) 9421 4700
  • Aboriginal Legal Service – 1800 765 767
  • AbSec NSW Child, Family and Community Peak Aboriginal Corporation – 132 111
  • Headspace – https://headspace.org.au
  • Sydney Region Aboriginal Corporation (SRAC)- 02 4721 1536
  • Muloobinba Aboriginal Corporation – 02 4969 5299
  • Wandiyali Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation – (02) 4969 5299
  • Awabakal Aboriginal Medical Service – (02) 4049 8300
  • Galambila Aboriginal Health Service – (02) 6652 0800
  • Bowraville Local Aboriginal Land Council – (02) 6564 7288
  • Bulgarr Ngaru Medical Aboriginal Corporation – (02) 6620 0900
  • Rekindling the Spirit – (02) 6622 1888
  • Mirrimpilyi Muurpa-Nara – (Menindee) 08 8012 2900 
  • Bila Muuji Aboriginal Health Services – (02) 6882 5952
  • Maari Ma Health (regional support) – (08) 8082 9777
  • Waminda South Coast Women’s Health and Welfare Aboriginal Corporation – (02) 4421 7400
  • Katungul Aboriginal Medical Service – (02) 6492 8000
  • Headspace – youth mental health support: https://headspace.org.au
  • Lifeline – 13 11 14 | https://www.lifeline.org.au
  • Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 | https://kidshelpline.com.au

Legal Help & Advice

If you ever need legal help, there are free services available:

  • Aboriginal Legal Service – 1800 765 767
  • Legal Aid NSW  https://www.legalaid
    .nsw.gov.au
  • LawAccess NSW   1300 888 529
  • Family Law Service for Aboriginal Communities (FamAC) | Legal Aid NSW

Emergency Help

  • Emergency – 000
  • Lifeline – 13 11 14
  • Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800
  • Link2Home – 1800 152 152
  • NSW Domestic Violence Line – 1800 656 463
  • Child Protection Helpline – 13 21 11
  • 13YARNto talk to an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis supporter.

Life Skills

Learning Life Skills (It’s Ok to learn as you go)

No one expects you to know everything straight away. Leaving care is a big transition, and learning everyday life skills takes time, practice and support.

Building these skills is important because they help you feel more confident, independent and in control of your life. Things like managing your money, keeping a home, getting to appointments and looking after yourself are all part of creating a stable and strong future.

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, having the right support while learning these skills is especially important. Being supported in a culturally safe way—through people and services who understand your background, community and experiences—can make the process feel less overwhelming and more empowering.

 You can ask for help with:

  • Budgeting and managing your money
  • Paying rent and bills
  • Cooking and shopping
  • Cleaning and maintaining a home
  • Using public transport
  • Attending appointments and managing your time

Where to get help

You don’t have to figure this out on your own. Support is available through:

  • Your caseworker or aftercare service
  • Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs)
  • Youth and housing support services
  • Specialist Aftercare Programs
  • Mentors, carers or trusted adults


These services can provide one-on-one support, practical guidance and sometimes even hands-on help to build your confidence step by step.

Remember: Asking for help is not a weakness – it’s part of learning.

Everyone starts somewhere. What matters is that you keep going, keep learning and reach out when you need support.

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Get Help Now

If you need immediate assistance, AbSec is here to support you.

We offer resources and guidance for children, young people, carers, and families at risk. Find the help you need and connect with the right support services.

I'm a Carer
We’re a Family At Risk
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Leaving Care Hub - Life After the System

About Us

AbSec is the peak organisation advocating for the rights and well-being of Aboriginal children, young people, and families in NSW.

Learn more about AbSec, our mission, and our commitment to supporting Aboriginal children, families, and communities through advocacy, capacity building, and sector leadership.

Who We Are
Our Sector
Our People
Our Members
Our Strategic Plan
Our Governance

Strengthening Our Sector

Building a resilient and effective sector that can better support Aboriginal children, young people, families, and communities.

Our initiatives and programs are designed to enhance the capacity and capability of Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and NGOs.

Quarterly Sector Forums
Deadly Practice
Learning & Development Centre
Know Your Rights
Campaigns We Support
Social Sector Transformation Fund
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Child Placement Principle

Our Voice

This section offers insights into the key policies and initiatives we champion, representing our commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of Aboriginal children, young people, families, and communities.

Aboriginal Case Management Policy
Family is Culture
Aboriginal Guardianship Support Model
News & Media
Reports & Publications
Adoption Is Not An Option
Out-of-home Care & Child Removals
Calls to Government

Closing the Gap

AbSec is dedicated to closing the gap in health, education, and wellbeing for Aboriginal children and families.

Explore the various initiatives and programs we support to drive systemic change and improve outcomes for our communities.

Aboriginal-led Commissioning
Strong Families, Our Way
ACCO Comprehensive Support Package

Get Involved

Discover how you can make a difference with AbSec.

From donating to becoming a carer, there are numerous ways to support our vision and help Aboriginal children, young people, families, and communities thrive.  

Donate
Events
Contact Us
Become a Carer
Become a Member
Work With Us
Partner With Us

AbSec would like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land in which we work and pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging. AbSec acknowledges the Stolen Generations who never came home.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are warned that this website may contain images of deceased people.