Hayley Gibbs joins trek in Western Australia to support youth homelessness

A MID North Coast woman is turning past hardships into purposeful action, walking 135 kilometres across Western Australia to support young people facing homelessness.

Hayley Gibbs draws on her own lived experience of youth homelessness to advocate for others who face instability, fear and isolation.

She is raising funds and awareness for regional communities, with proceeds going directly to YP Space MNC.

“There was a time in my life when stability felt completely out of reach,” Ms Gibbs said.

“For me, this hike is more than just a challenge. It’s deeply symbolic of how far I’ve come.

“Every kilometre speaks to resilience, and every step represents young people still living in the uncertainty I survived.”

Youth homelessness remains one of Australia’s most confronting and often hidden social challenges, particularly in regional communities where services can be harder to access.

Ms Gibbs told News Of The Area that youth homelessness can be incredibly isolating and often invisible, especially in regional communities.

“Organisations like YP do more than provide crisis support – they create real pathways for young people to rebuild confidence, stability, and hope.

“If there’s one message I’d share with young people facing uncertainty, it’s this: ‘everything comes down to perspective’.

“The hard days are shaping your strength and resilience – lean into them and learn.

“The good days are glimpses of the future waiting for you – be present and embrace your joy.”

Through the Cape to Cape walk, from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin, Ms Gibbs hopes her story offers encouragement to young people facing difficult circumstances.

YP Space MNC provides accommodation and tailored support programs for young people aged twelve to 25 across the Port Macquarie Hastings and Macleay local government areas.

The organisation has supported thousands of young people over more than 40 years of service.

By Sis HIGGINS