Praxis Youth Limited

Praxis Youth Limited is an Australian charity dedicated to supporting young people exiting the youth justice system by providing stable housing and tailored support to help them rebuild their lives. Founded by Michael Kwan, who draws on his own lived experience of incarceration and homelessness, the organisation focuses on breaking the cycle of reoffending by addressing the critical barriers of housing instability and lack of support. Praxis Youth Limited combines evidence-based practices with lived experience leadership to create pathways for young people to achieve long-term stability and personal growth.

Housing First: The Flagship Program Empowering Youth Stability

The Housing First program is Praxis Youth Limited’s flagship initiative, prioritising secure, private rental housing for young people immediately upon release from custody. This approach provides subsidised rent for the initial months and wraps comprehensive weekly support around each individual, covering mental health, education, employment, finances, and social connection. The program’s core aim is to foster long-term stability and reduce recidivism by ensuring young people have a safe place to live and the resources to thrive.

Mission and Vision

Praxis Youth Limited’s mission is to support young people leaving custody to secure housing and build the stability necessary for positive life choices. Its vision is a society where no young person is forced back into the justice system due to lack of housing or support, enabling them to live fulfilling, independent lives.

Main Objectives

• Provide immediate access to safe, stable housing for young people exiting youth justice.
• Deliver tailored, ongoing support addressing mental health, education, employment, and social needs.
• Reduce youth recidivism by breaking the cycle of homelessness and instability.
• Advocate for systemic change in youth justice and housing policies.

Benefiting Groups

Praxis Youth Limited primarily benefits young people exiting the youth justice system who face homelessness or unstable living conditions. It also supports those experiencing mental health challenges, social isolation, and barriers to education or employment.

Types of Services or Activities

• Securing private rental housing with rent subsidies for young people leaving custody.
• Weekly structured support sessions tailored to individual needs.
• Partnerships with education, training, employment, and specialist service providers.
• Advocacy and policy work to improve housing and justice systems for at-risk youth.