Positive outcomes: Premier visits Nambour’s Old Church to support youth services

Premier Steven Miles, second from left, and Rob Skelton visited the Old Church

Queensland Premier Steven Miles visited The Old Church in Nambour on Friday, September 30, accompanied by Nicklin MP Rob Skelton. The visit aimed to spotlight the vital role the facility plays in supporting young people who are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness.

Managed by Integrated Family and Youth Service (IFYS), The Old Church, provides temporary supported accommodation for young people aged 16 to 25, offering them a safe place to stay for up to two years. Since its opening in October 2023, the facility has provided over 4,000 bed nights, supporting 27 young people.

The services at The Old Church go beyond just accommodation. The facility offers a range of programs aimed at fostering positive outcomes for its residents, including youth development sessions, cooking classes, life skills courses, and regular recreational activities. Many of the young people staying at The Old Church are also engaged in educational pathways, ranging from secondary school to university.

The Department of Housing funds the operation of The Old Church as part of a broader commitment to tackling homelessness on the Sunshine Coast. 

IFYS is also involved in several other homelessness initiatives across the region, providing both immediate and transitional supported accommodation, as well as outreach services targeting rough sleepers.

During the visit, Premier Miles and MP Rob Skelton were briefed on the ongoing efforts to expand services, including plans to open additional beds for adults experiencing homelessness as part of the Homes for Queenslanders initiative. The visit underscored the importance of such facilities in providing crucial support to vulnerable members of the community.