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Understanding Staying On
Staying On is one part of the Safety Net of resources for young people in the Home Stretch WA program. Young people and their carers can continue a stable living arrangement until the young person turns 21, with ongoing payments supporting carers and an expectation of contribution from the young person. Home Stretch WA helps create a Staying On Agreement , while the Department of Communities administers the Staying On Subsidy.
The Coaching Practice Principles that are most important in supporting a young person to explore, maintain or exit a Staying On living arrangement, include those below.
- A reliable source of income is your right – it’s your choice to come and go
- You are the expert in your life, you deserve the freedom and respect to make your own choices – our support is unconditional
- ‘Chipping in or chucking in is about young people taking charge – this means that young people are asked to invest in themselves – building their skills, knowledge and capacity
- You can make an informed choice about the support you receive from Home Stretch WA – there are no shocks for you or the important people in your life
- ‘Important moments and transition points in your life are acknowledged and celebrated
- Your relationships are important – the important people in your life can be part of your Home Stretch WA experience and we can support you to build new connections
Staying On is part of Home Stretch WA, offering young people the choice to remain in a stable home with their carer until age 21. It provides continued financial support, while young people contribute to the living arrangement and remain at the centre of all decisions.
The Staying On Agreement sets clear expectations and responsibilities, ensuring both young people and carers feel supported. Transition Coaches and Facilitators work alongside families, not above them—respecting their values, building trust, and helping navigate services like Centrelink and TAFE.
Coaching is strengths-based and youth-led, recognising young people as capable adults. Support is flexible, unconditional, and focused on building life skills, maintaining relationships, and celebrating important milestones.
This module will equip you to guide young people and carers through the Staying On process, communicate roles and responsibilities clearly, and advocate effectively when needed. Above all, Staying On ensures young people have the choice to transition into adulthood with stability and support.