Partners, schools and community leaders gathered on Wednesday evening to celebrate 10 years of The Geelong Project and its achievements in preventing youth homelessness.
Hosted at Geelong High School, the milestone event brought together Meli board members and executive leaders, local MPs and community partners to reflect on a decade of collaboration and look ahead to the future.
The Geelong Project (TGP) is a school‑based early intervention model that works with secondary schools and local services to identify students at risk of housing instability and provide timely, coordinated support for young people and their families.
Since its launch, the results have been striking: youth homelessness reduced by up to 40 per cent, alongside a 20 per cent reduction in early school leaving.
The model’s success has seen it replicated internationally in the UK, USA and Canada, including most recently through Prince William’s Homewards initiative.
Speaking at the event, Meli Community Board Director Kate Morrissy said what began as “just an idea with a bold ambition” had grown into a nationally recognised approach to early intervention.
“It shows how early, coordinated support can keep young people engaged in education and connected to their communities,” she said.
“We’ve seen the difference this model makes: stronger engagement, improved wellbeing, and genuine hope for young people who might otherwise fall through the gaps.”
The power of early intervention was brought to life through the story of former participant Zavier McGill, who shared how TGP support helped stabilise his life during high school after family violence and eviction in Year 9 left him effectively homeless.
With support in place, Zavier stayed connected to school and completed his secondary education. Now 23, he is studying a Bachelor of Social Work at Deakin University.
Meli CEO Robyn Hayles described TGP as “a story of collaboration” and acknowledged the collective effort behind its success.
“While tonight is an important moment to honour progress, it’s also an opportunity to look forward,” she said.
“There’s real potential ahead to deepen what works, grow our impact, and continue evolving The Geelong Project into the future.”
A panel discussion, hosted by Meli Manager Youth Services Zak Davidson, explored the project’s priorities for the next decade.
TGP Project Manager Colleen Cartwright outlined an ambition to extend the model to all Geelong secondary schools, while Team Leader Lauryn Borthwick highlighted the importance of even earlier intervention, including expansion into primary schools.
Member for Geelong Christine Couzens also addressed the event, reflecting on her experience working in a local youth refuge before entering parliament.
“It’s incredible for this community to have The Geelong Project right on our doorstep,” Ms Couzens said.
“The work that’s been done is incredible – it’s saving lives, really.
“I want to congratulate everyone that’s been involved in this project. It’s so important to our community and it’s so important that it continues.”
To find out more about The Geelong Project, visit www.meli.org.au/youth-services/the-geelong-project/
Photo: State member for Geelong Christine Couzens, former TGP participant Zavier McGill and Meli CEO Robyn Hayles.
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