This document brings together relevant information on the topic of unsupported, homeless young people under 18 years of age. The stated purpose of the document is to identify policy directions which take account of the changing situations of many young people who are struggling to survive. Chapter 1 briefly outlines the background of the paper. Chapter 2 reviews the literature on the reasons young people leave home and outlines some of the literature on early school leaving. Chapter 3 looks more broadly at issues of youth homelessness and reviews the literature in order to identify the major needs of unsupported, homeless youth. Chapter 4 outlines some of the major reports and reviews concerning young people in Australia in recent years and traces the development of Commonwealth government policies since 1983. Chapters 5, 6, and 7 examine Commonwealth provision in the areas of accommodation, income support, and education and training. Chapter 8 looks at groups with special needs, including young women, victims of sexual assault, non-English speaking persons, Aborigines, young people in rural and isolated areas, refugees, and young people with a history of institutionalization. Chapter 9 examines a number of issues concerning youth and independence and individual, family and community responsibility for young people. Chapter 10 looks at short-term and long-term strategies for unsupported, homeless youth. A six-page list of references is included. (ABL)