MCM undertakes purposeful advocacy at all levels – government, private sector and community. We work closely with the sector to advocate for positive social change.
You can read our policy and research submissions below.
PDF | 1.7 MB
The research explores the use of animal assisted interventions (AAI’s) to support young people at Frontyard Youth Services. Animal assisted interventions (AAI’s) are an emerging therapeutic practice that use animals to support people with emotional distress, social relationships and coping skills. Frontyard trialled the use of therapy dogs to reduce the stress and anxiety experienced by young people situated in the waiting area, provide an opportunity for positive social interaction among young people, and increase young people’s engagement in integrated services based at Frontyard.
PDF | 1.5 MB
Mental health impacts many of our clients’ lives and underpins much of our work. This submission draws from the stories and observations of MCM’s diverse client groups and staff to highlight the inequitable barriers that many MCM clients face in accessing mental health supports. Future reforms to Victoria’s mental health system should consider the needs of people with the most complex mental health issues, particularly as they intersect with experiences of homelessness, disability, Alcohol and other Drug (AOD) issues, and structural and societal barriers including poverty, social exclusion and discrimination.
PDF | 1.8 MB
This research undertaken by Professor Robyn Broadbent from Victoria University has set out to review The Hester Hornbrook Academy youth worker in a classroom model. Anecdotally teaching staff say that when youth workers are in the classroom that there is an educational lift. This research set out to understand the practice of youth work in the classroom and the contribution that practice makes to educational outcomes. In particular, to assist the Academy to continue to improve and enhance the model.
PDF | 1.8 MB
This research undertaken by Professor Robyn Broadbent from Victoria University has set out to review The Hester Hornbrook Academy youth worker in a classroom model. Anecdotally teaching staff say that when youth workers are in the classroom that there is an educational lift. This research set out to understand the practice of youth work in the classroom and the contribution that practice makes to educational outcomes. In particular, to assist the Academy to continue to improve and enhance the model.
PDF | 1 MB
Summary document: Melbourne City Mission is often asked why young people choose to become homeless, or whether young people choose homelessness as a lifestyle. While we know that the underlying causes of family breakdown are complex, we wanted to articulate that complexity in a way that could be understood in the wider community. This research does just that.