Making the Most of Home Stretch and Better Futures Flexible Funding

Home Stretch is available to eligible young people in Victoria to live independently or remain with their carers until the age of 21. This support applies when a young person is on a Care by Secretary Order, a Long Term Care Order, a Permanent Care Order, or a Permanent Care Plan from the age of 16. They must also be referred and connected to Better Futures.

Home Stretch operates through the Better Futures program. The package provides three service components. These are an allowance, case work support, and flexible funding to help young people access, education, employment, health and wellbeing support, community connection, and for those who live independently, accommodation and housing costs.

As a young person approaches 15 years and 9 months, their care team should begin discussions about the support they may require after they turn 18. The young person must give consent for their case manager to seek approval from the Child Protection Manager. Once this approval is given, the young person will need to complete the application.

The flexible funding component of Better Futures and Home Stretch is significant. It is intended to help young people develop independence and reach their goals. Funding can assist with practical needs such as laptops for study, phones for communication, textbooks for university or TAFE, or fees for training courses. It can also cover costs that build essential life skills such as driving lessons, Myki travel, or basic household items.

Flexible funding can also support wellbeing. Young people may be able to use it for gym memberships, sports fees, creative classes, or other hobbies that build confidence and connection. Support for mental health services or social activities may also be covered. These items help a young person build stability and personal development as they move toward adulthood.

This part of the package is often underused. Carers can support young people by exploring how the flexible funding can be applied to day to day needs and long term goals. Carers can consider encouraging their young person to identify aspirations, training options, or personal development goals that may require financial support. The case manager or Better Futures worker can then help identify appropriate uses of the flexible funding.

Each young person’s situation is different. Flexible funding allows their support to be shaped around them. It also helps young people take steps toward financial independence, stable housing, and positive health outcomes.

If a young person in your care is eligible for Better Futures or Home Stretch, check in with your case manager to discuss how they can access the full potential of the funding.