Nominations now open for young achievers
Minister for Housing David Borger today called for nominations for the annual Housing NSW Youth Achievement Awards.
Mr Borger said the awards were introduced in 2006 to recognise the achievements of young public housing tenants.
"The importance of encouraging inspiring young people should not be overstated. These awards encourage and support young social housing tenants - many of whom have had to overcome a range of difficulties to reach their goals," he said.
Mr Borger said the awards recognise social housing tenants under 25 who excel in the following categories:
- Achievement in a Chosen Career
"More than a quarter of all people living in public housing are under 18 years of age - that's a lot of young people, many of whom are involved in some wonderful community initiatives," he said.
"Unfortunately, these initiatives are rarely praised or even acknowledged as people who live in public housing are often branded as being less deserving than others and unable to improve their lives.
"As someone who lived in a public housing house as a child I know firsthand that it's not true and it's not fair but it's a stereotype that young people living in public housing often have to overcome."
Mr Borger said the awards form part of a new direction in social housing which not only makes sure that young people have a roof over their heads but also fosters their future opportunities too.
"We want to encourage them to aim high to reach their goals and in turn inspire others to do the same," Mr Borger said.
Nominations for the Housing NSW Youth Achievement Awards are now open with forms and guidelines available on the Housing NSW website www.housing.nsw.gov.au or on 1300 468 746. Nominations close on 7 November 2008.
