Navig8

This three-phase program helps young people to transition from care to independent living.

Naviga8 helps young people aged 14 to 25 years to get on their own feet after they have lived in child protection care, foster care or group homes. Throughout the program, we provide extensive services including:

• Career planning, job seeking and further education/training
• Support during transition from care to independence
• Advocacy with government agencies and other community organisations
• Support to explore accommodation options available after care
• Referrals to specialised support agencies, community groups and service providers in the region

Phase 1 and 2 is for 14-17 year olds, and includes an:

• Initial meeting between child protection worker, young person, Navig8 (and sometimes caregiver), and ongoing attendance at planning meetings
• At age 16, Navig8 can work with child protection to help organise driving lessons
• At 17, more frequent meetings take place leading up to young person exiting care

Phase 3 is when a young person ages out of care from 18 years to 25 years Navig8 assumes case management of the young person. An initial assessment and case plan is developed for the young person with a focus on:

• Maintaining life skills (cooking, cleaning, budgeting etc.)
• Maintaining housing
• Ensuring positive support networks are created
• Referring to other services as needed
• Transition to Independent Living Allowance (TILA) application for $1500
• Maintaining employment/education

Who it’s for?

Young people aged between 14 and 25, however priority is given to those aged 18 – 25 years leaving care or who have already left, to ensure supports are in place for a successful transition to independence.